US President Donald Trump has stated that he will meet Colombian counterpart Gustavo Petro at the White House in the near future, just days after expressing support for actions targeting Colombia. This revelation comes on the heels of a US-led operation resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, raising serious concerns over the repercussions in the region.
Trump's declaration follows troubling reports from Venezuela, where Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello indicated that over 100 people may have died in the military raid on Maduro's compound, significantly higher than initial estimates.
During their phone conversation, Petro discussed several issues including drugs and other disagreements, with Trump noting his appreciation for Petro's tone. This comes after Trump had issued a stark warning to the Colombian leader earlier this week, advising him to remain cautious.
Colombia is known to be a critical hub for drug trade, especially cocaine, and is rich in resources such as oil and precious metals, making it strategically important to the US. The US recently pledged to maintain control over Venezuelan oil sales indefinitely, as the political landscape continues to shift.
In a controversial statement, Trump described Petro as a sick man engaged in drug trafficking, asserting, he's not going to be doing it for very long. Petro, in retaliation, threatened that Colombia would take up arms if the US were to pursue military action against his government, presenting a stark escalation in rhetoric.
In conclusion, while the US has imposed sanctions on Petro, accusing him of failing to combat drug trafficking, Trump later referred to their dialogue as a Great Honor and indicated that arrangements would be made for Petro's visit to Washington.
