Colombian Leader Says 'I Shall Take Up Arms Again' should US Launches an Attack.

Donald Trump and Colombia's president have turned up the rhetoric of their exchange, heightening tensions between the two countries after US forces attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from his position.

"He operates narcotics facilities and cocaine factories and that won't last much longer," the US president stated.

Rising Rhetoric and Claims

Addressing journalists on Sunday, the American leader hinted at similar military action against Bogotá, stating Colombia faces serious problems and “run by an unwell individual who enjoys creating cocaine and distributing it to America."

While Colombia stands as the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way involved in the illicit industry.

A Strained Alliance

The country has long been a staunch collaborator of the US in the struggle against narcotics trade and enjoyed cross-party backing from American politicians, but relations have deteriorated significantly since Trump assumed the presidency.

Colombia’s narcotics trade is mainly overseen by illegal armed groups such as one major cartel, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and breakaway groups of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), the majority of whose members disbanded after a landmark accord.

Petro's Strong Answer

In response to a query if a military operation like that in Venezuela was a possibility against his country, Trump replied: "It sounds good to me."

Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who demobilised decades ago, rejected these allegations. "I am not an illegitimate leader nor am I a narco," he declared.

"He comments without information. Stop slandering me," he expressed in a post.

"If US bombs target civilians, they will become numerous insurgents across the countryside. If they capture the nation's leader, which a large part of the country holds in high esteem, they will provoke the powerful force of the populace," the president cautioned.

From Insurgent to Leader

The president dedicated a period in his early life participating with the radical M-19 guerrilla group although reports indicate to have ever participated in combat. Upon leaving the group, he took part in drafting a new constitution in 1991 and later became a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of Bogotá prior to his election president.

"I made a vow not to touch a gun ... but in defense of my country I would take up the fight," he said.

Reinforced Protection along with Widespread Condemnation

Colombia's defense chief stated that Petro's personal security had been reinforced.

A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with Trump, however, leaders spanning Colombian politics have condemned the notion of an invasion against their nation.

Political and Financial Sanctions

The US withdrew Petro’s visa following he urged American soldiers to refuse any illegal orders. Later, in October, authorities imposed asset freezes targeting Petro, the first lady and several associates.

Concurrently as the US increased its military presence in the Caribbean and bombing vessels thought to carry drugs to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces also carried out strikes on boats in Pacific waters near Colombia.