Colombian Leader Declares 'I Would Return to Arms Once More' if United States Intervenes Militarily.

Donald Trump along with President Gustavo Petro have escalated the volume in their verbal conflict, increasing strains bilaterally following US forces struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from his position.

"He operates drug factories and processing labs and that won't last much longer," Trump remarked.

Escalating Rhetoric and Allegations

Addressing the press on Sunday, the American leader hinted at similar military action against Colombia, claiming the country is “very sick too” and governed by an unwell individual who enjoys creating the drug and distributing it to the United States."

While Colombia stands as the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way connected to the trade.

A Frayed Relationship

Colombia was historically a key ally of Washington in the fight against drug trafficking and enjoyed cross-party backing from American politicians, but relations have worsened markedly since Trump assumed the presidency.

Its narcotics trade is largely controlled by criminal organizations including the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the demobilized Farc, most of its former fighters demobilised following a 2016 peace deal.

The President's Strong Answer

When asked whether a military operation like that in Venezuela was on the cards against his country, Trump replied: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."

Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed in the last century, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am no illegitimate and certainly not a drug trafficker," he declared.

"He comments without knowledge. Stop slandering me," he posted in a message.

"If US bombs target civilians, they will become thousands of guerrillas across the countryside. And if they detain me, which a significant portion of the country admires and supports, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," he admonished.

From Insurgent to President

Petro spent part of his youth belonging in the left-wing M-19 guerrilla group but is not believed he did not took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he was involved in drafting a new constitution in the early 90s and later became a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city before being elected president.

"I made a vow to abstain from using a weapon again ... but for Colombia I shall resume arms again," he vowed.

Reinforced Protection and Widespread Opposition

Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that Petro's personal security had been reinforced.

A segment of Colombia’s political right have sided with the US president, however, leaders from all sides of the political spectrum have rejected the possibility of a US attack against their nation.

Diplomatic and Economic Pressure

American authorities revoked the president's entry visa after he called on US troops to refuse unlawful commands. In October, authorities imposed economic restrictions against the president, the first lady and a number of key allies.

Concurrently the US was building up its troop levels in the region and striking vessels thought to carry drugs to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, the US have also conducted operations on boats in Pacific waters near Colombia.