Colombia's Leader Declares 'I Would Return to Arms Again' if United States Launches an Attack.

The US President and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the volume of their exchange, heightening strains in their relations after American military units attacked Venezuela with the aim of deposing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from his position.

"He runs drug factories and cocaine factories and is not going to be doing it very long," Trump added.

Rising Tensions coupled with Allegations

Talking to the press on Sunday, the US president threatened comparable armed intervention against Colombia, claiming the nation faces serious problems and led by an unwell individual who likes making cocaine and distributing it to the United States."

Although Colombia remains the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way connected to the illicit industry.

A Deteriorating Relationship

Colombia has long been a key ally of the US in the fight against narcotics trade and enjoyed wide political approval in the US capital, but relations have soured dramatically after Trump was elected.

Its narcotics trade is predominantly run by illegal armed groups including the Golf Clan, the ELN guerrilla group and breakaway groups of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), the majority of whose members laid down arms after a landmark accord.

Colombia's Firm Response

In response to a query whether a military operation similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea from my perspective."

Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am not illegitimate and certainly not involved in narcotics," he affirmed.

"Trump speaks without information. Stop slandering me," he wrote in a post.

"If they [the US] bomb rural communities, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the mountains. And should they arrest me, which a large part of Colombians loves and respects, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.

From Insurgent to President

The president dedicated a period in his early life belonging of the leftist M-19 guerrilla group although reports indicate to have ever participated in combat. Following his disarmament, he took part in drafting the nation's constitution in the early 90s subsequently becoming an influential politician. He held the office of mayor of Bogotá before being elected president.

"I made a vow to abstain from using a weapon again ... but for the homeland I would take up the fight," he affirmed.

Increased Security and Widespread Condemnation

Colombia's defense chief reported that the president’s personal security had received additional support.

Many among Colombia’s political right have expressed support with Trump, however, leaders spanning Colombian politics have denounced the notion of American military action on Colombia.

Bilateral and Economic Sanctions

Washington revoked the president's entry visa following he urged American soldiers to ignore orders that violate law. Months later, it placed asset freezes against the president, his spouse and several close collaborators.

At the same time the US was building up its forces in the region and bombing alleged narcotics traffickers against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed operations against vessels in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.