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Colombian leader raises alarm over US military threats
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has described a "real threat" of US military intervention in his country, citing recent statements by President Donald Trump and escalating tensions over immigration and drug policy.
Trump's rhetoric fuels diplomatic crisis
In an interview with the BBC, Petro accused the US of treating Latin American nations as part of an "empire," warning that Washington risks global isolation if it continues its current approach. The remarks follow Trump's suggestion that military action in Colombia "sounds good" and his repeated warnings to Petro to "watch his ass."
A phone call between the two leaders on Wednesday was initially framed as a diplomatic breakthrough, with Trump calling it a "Great Honour" on Truth Social. A Colombian official described the conversation as a 180-degree shift in tone. However, Petro later told the BBC the call lasted nearly an hour, with most of the time spent on his concerns about US immigration enforcement and regional stability.
ICE operations draw sharp criticism
Petro condemned US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents as "Nazi brigades," citing a recent shooting in Minneapolis where an ICE officer killed a 37-year-old US citizen, Renee Nicole Good. Federal officials claimed Good attempted to run over agents with her car, but Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called the shooting reckless and demanded ICE leave the city.
The Colombian president argued that ICE's actions-including the detention of 65,000 people as of November 2025 and the deportation of 605,000 since January-reflect a broader pattern of US aggression. "Instead of dominating the world, the US is isolating itself," he said.
Historical grievances and defense strategy
Petro framed Trump's threats within Colombia's history of territorial losses, including Panama in the 20th century. When asked how Colombia would defend itself, he emphasized dialogue but added, "Our history shows how we respond to large armies-not with weapons we lack, but with our people, mountains, and jungles."
He also revealed discussions with Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, and accused foreign intelligence agencies of covert operations in Latin America. While he did not directly address fears of CIA involvement in Colombia, he warned against "interference" beyond counter-narcotics efforts.
Drug policy and economic tensions
Trump has repeatedly blamed Colombia for drug trafficking, calling Petro a "sick man" who profits from cocaine sales to the US. Petro denied the allegations, citing his two-decade fight against cartels, including his family's exile. He defended his "total peace" strategy, which combines negotiations with armed groups and military offensives, noting reductions in coca cultivation and homicides in southern Colombia.
The US has also tightened control over Venezuelan oil sales, further straining relations. Petro linked recent US military action in Venezuela to fossil fuel interests, arguing that Washington's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement had fueled regional conflicts.
Public outcry and uncertain path forward
Trump's threats triggered protests across Colombia, with demonstrators rallying for sovereignty. Petro said the risk of US intervention depends on "ongoing conversations," but his latest remarks suggest little progress in easing tensions.
The White House has not responded to the BBC's request for comment.
