Colombian Leader Warns 'I Would Take Up Arms Once More' if United States Intervenes Militarily.

Donald Trump and President Gustavo Petro have escalated the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, increasing strains between the two countries following US forces struck Venezuela in an operation to oust President Nicolás Maduro from office.

"He has narcotics facilities and production sites and is not going to be doing it very long," Trump added.

Growing Tensions and Accusations

Speaking to the press on Sunday, Trump threatened analogous military action against Bogotá, stating the country is “very sick too” and governed by a problematic figure who likes making narcotics and trafficking it to the US."

While Colombia stands as the leading producer of cocaine, no proof exists implicating Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally tied to the trade.

A Frayed Partnership

This nation was historically a key ally of Washington in the campaign against drug trafficking and benefited from wide political approval in Washington, yet ties have deteriorated markedly after Trump was elected.

The nation's illicit drug economy is mainly overseen by criminal organizations such as the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), most of its former fighters demobilised subsequent to a landmark accord.

Colombia's Defiant Rebuttal

In response to a query if a military operation like that in Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "It sounds good to me personally."

Petro, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who left armed struggle in the last century, categorically refuted the accusations. "I am neither illegitimate nor am I involved in narcotics," he affirmed.

"He comments without information. Cease defaming me," he expressed in a post.

"If they [the US] bomb civilians, they will turn into numerous insurgents in the hills. And should they arrest me, whom many of Colombians holds in high esteem, they will release the fierce spirit of the nation," the president cautioned.

From Fighter to President

The president dedicated some years as a young man belonging of the leftist M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not engaged in fighting. Upon leaving the group, he participated in drafting a new constitution in 1991 subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city before being elected the presidency.

"I made a vow to never again hold a weapon again ... but for the homeland I shall resume arms again," he affirmed.

Increased Security along with Broad Opposition

Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that Petro's security detail had received additional support.

Many among Colombia’s political right 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 Economic Sanctions

Washington withdrew Petro’s visa subsequent to he encouraged American soldiers to ignore unlawful commands. In October, authorities imposed asset freezes against the president, his spouse and a number of associates.

Simultaneously while America bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean and striking suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed strikes on boats off the Pacific coast near Colombia.