BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA: Diplomatic tensions between Colombia and the United States have reached a boiling point after Bogotá recalled its ambassador from Washington in protest against former U.S. President Donald Trump’s inflammatory comments accusing Colombian President Gustavo Petro of being an “illegal drug leader.”
Trump’s remarks — coupled with threats to suspend U.S. aid and impose new tariffs — have triggered outrage in Bogotá, prompting the government to take the unprecedented step of recalling its envoy, Daniel García-Peña, for consultations. Colombia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the statements as “insulting and reckless,” warning they jeopardize decades of close cooperation between the two nations.
The diplomatic rift deepened following a recent U.S. military strike in the Caribbean, targeting a vessel allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking. Colombian officials claim the attack violated their sovereignty and resulted in civilian casualties, while Trump defended the action as part of his “tough stance” on global drug control.
Colombia, one of Washington’s key allies in Latin America, now faces a serious diplomatic dilemma as trade, aid, and joint counter-narcotics operations hang in the balance. The United States remains Colombia’s largest trading partner, accounting for nearly one-third of its exports — a relationship that could now be at risk.
Analysts warn that if the situation escalates further, it could unravel years of bilateral progress in security cooperation, anti-narcotics efforts, and regional diplomacy. For President Petro, already under pressure domestically, the standoff adds yet another layer of complexity to his leadership.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.