“US President Donald Trump has threatened Colombian President Gustavo Petro with war, saying that after Venezuela, Colombia will be the next country that Washington will target with its weapons to fight drug trafficking.”, — write: www.pravda.com.ua
Donald Trump. Photo: Getty Images Source: Politico
Trump’s direct speech: “Colombia produces a lot of drugs. So he (Colombia’s president – ed.) better wake up or he’ll be next. He’ll be next very soon. I hope he’s listening, he’ll be next.”
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Details: Although at first in a conversation with journalists, the head of the White House noted that he “didn’t think too much” about Petro, his comments quickly turned into direct threats against the Colombian president.
Earlier this week, in an interview with Politico, the US president already announced his intention to extend a large-scale military operation from Venezuela to the territory of Mexico and Colombia.
Since September, the U.S. has carried out at least 20 strikes against naval vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean that, according to unconfirmed reports, may be carrying drugs.
To block drug trafficking, Trump ordered a significant increase in the naval presence in the region. The fleet group includes the newest and most modern US aircraft carrier, a nuclear fast submarine, a special purpose vessel, a dozen other warships, more than 14,000 military personnel, as well as fifth generation F-35 fighter jets.
Now, judging by Trump’s statements, a similar force scenario can be applied to Colombia.
Prehistory:
- Tensions between Trump and Petro grew throughout the fall amid an aggressive US anti-drug campaign in Latin America.
- In particular, the Trump Administration accused its long-time ally of refusing to stop the flow of cocaine to the United States, and Trump himself named Petro “the leader of the illegal drug trade” and threatened to raise tariffs and stop financial support for Colombia.
- In addition, tensions increased due to Colombia’s refusal to accept planes with deported migrants from the USA.
- In late October, the United States introduced personal sanctions against the President of Colombia Gustavo Petro and his closest entourage.