U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that Colombia could become the next target of a U.S. military operation, escalating rhetoric in an already tense regional climate following recent U.S. action against Venezuela.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday aboard Air Force One, Trump sharply criticized Colombia’s left-leaning president, Gustavo Petro, using inflammatory language and accusing him of being complicit in cocaine production and trafficking. Trump warned Petro to “watch” himself and claimed Colombia was being mismanaged.
“Colombia is very sick, too, run by a sick man, who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States,” Trump said.
When asked directly whether the United States would consider a military operation against Colombia, Trump responded, “It sounds good to me.”
Background to the Remarks
Trump’s comments followed public criticism from President Petro, who described Washington’s recent military action in Venezuela as an “assault on the sovereignty” of Latin America. Petro has previously opposed foreign military intervention in the region, calling instead for diplomacy and respect for national sovereignty.
The U.S. president also claimed that Washington was now “in charge” of Venezuela following the removal of President Nicolás Maduro, a statement that has drawn concern and condemnation across parts of Latin America.
Venezuela Developments
Trump’s remarks coincided with preparations for Maduro’s first appearance in a federal court in Manhattan, following his reported capture by U.S. forces. The case has attracted global attention and intensified debate over the legality and consequences of U.S. intervention in the region.
Calls for Calm
In response to the unfolding situation, Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s acting president, appealed for restraint and diplomacy.
“We prioritize moving toward balanced and respectful international relations between the United States and Venezuela,” Rodríguez said.
“Our peoples and our region deserve peace and dialogue, not war. This has always been President Nicolás Maduro’s message, and it is the message of all of Venezuela right now.”
Regional Concerns
Trump’s comments have heightened concerns among regional leaders and analysts, who warn that aggressive rhetoric and threats of military action could further destabilize Latin America, strain U.S. relations with key allies, and undermine ongoing efforts to address drug trafficking through cooperation rather than confrontation.
No official U.S. policy decision regarding Colombia has been announced, and the White House has not released further clarification on the president’s remarks.
Source: Africa Publicity
