“You’re A Sick Man’: Trump Labels Colombian President, Threatens Military Action”
President Donald Trump of the United States has sharply criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro, calling him a “sick man” and threatening possible military action against Colombia, in comments made on Sunday
Speaking to reporters, Trump accused Petro of overseeing a government that is “very sick … run by a sick man who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States,” and added that “he’s not going to be doing it very long.” When asked if he meant a U.S. military operation against Colombia, Trump replied: “Sounds good to me.”
The president’s remarks followed dramatic developments in Venezuela, where U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife during a surprise operation. Maduro is now in U.S. custody and expected to face federal court proceedings in New York on drug-related charges.
Trump’s comments have significantly escalated tensions between Washington and Bogotá, marking a stark shift in rhetoric toward Colombia, a long-time U.S. ally in efforts to combat drug trafficking. Colombian officials have strongly rejected Trump’s characterization, with Petro defending his administration’s anti-narcotics efforts and calling the U.S. actions a threat to regional sovereignty.
The unfolding situation has drawn international attention, with many countries and regional organizations expressing concern over rising tensions in Latin America following the U.S. intervention in Venezuela and Trump’s latest warnings toward neighboring governments.
