Colombia's Leader Declares 'I Would Take Up Arms Again' should American Forces Intervenes Militarily.

Donald Trump along with President Gustavo Petro have turned up the rhetoric of their exchange, further raising tensions in their relations after US forces attacked Venezuela to remove the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from power.

"He operates cocaine mills and production sites and that won't last much longer," Trump added.

Rising Rhetoric and Accusations

Speaking to the press over the weekend, the American leader threatened comparable armed intervention against Colombia, claiming the nation is also "very ill" and governed by a problematic figure who enjoys creating narcotics and trafficking it to the US."

While Colombia is the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, no proof exists implicating Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way connected to the trade.

A Strained Partnership

This nation for decades served as a close partner of the US in the struggle combating drug cartels and enjoyed bipartisan support in the US capital, however, the relationship have soured markedly since Trump was elected.

Colombia’s illicit drug economy is largely controlled by guerrilla factions like one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the former Farc guerrillas, a large contingent of whom demobilised after a 2016 peace deal.

The President's Firm Answer

Upon being questioned whether military intervention similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea to me personally."

President Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed decades ago, rejected Trump's claims. "I am no illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he declared.

"The US president speaks without knowledge. Stop slandering me," he posted in a message.

"If they [the US] bomb rural communities, they will transform into a multitude of fighters across the countryside. If they capture the president, whom a significant portion of the country admires and supports, they will provoke the fierce spirit of the people," Petro warned.

From Guerrilla to Leader

Petro spent a period in his early life participating of the leftist M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not engaged in fighting. Upon leaving the group, he participated in creating the nation's constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as an influential politician. He served as mayor of the capital city before winning the presidency.

"I made a vow to never again hold arms again ... but in defense of my country I will take up the fight," he vowed.

Increased Security along with Broad Rejection

Colombia's defense chief announced that Petro's protection team had been reinforced.

Several members of Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with Trump's stance, however, leaders from all sides of the ideological divide have denounced the possibility of American military action on Colombia.

Bilateral and Financial Pressure

Washington revoked Petro’s visa subsequent to he encouraged US military personnel to ignore orders that violate law. Later, in October, it placed asset freezes on Petro, the first lady and various associates.

Simultaneously as the US increased its military presence near Venezuela and bombing suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets have also conducted attacks on maritime targets in the eastern Pacific region off the Colombian coast.