Tuesday, January 6, 2026- President Donald Trump has escalated tensions in Latin America by openly suggesting a possible military operation against Colombia in the wake of the United States’ dramatic raid in Venezuela that captured President Nicolás Maduro.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described Colombia as “very sick” and attacked the leadership of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of presiding over drug production and trafficking to the United States. When pressed on whether the U.S. might pursue a military operation against Colombia, Trump responded that such action “sounds good to me,” signaling a sharp escalation in rhetoric toward a long‑time regional partner.
Bogotá swiftly rejected Trump’s comments, characterizing them as an unacceptable threat and undue interference in Colombia’s internal affairs. The Colombian government reaffirmed its commitment to cooperation with the United States on issues like drug trafficking, even as relations have deteriorated sharply under the current U.S. administration.
In response to the threat, President Petro accused Trump of reckless rhetoric that could destabilize the region, warning that foreign military action could revive domestic conflict and undermine peace.
The situation has triggered broader concerns across the hemisphere about U.S. intentions following the Venezuela operation. Trump’s broader comments included warnings about other nations and underscored a confrontational approach to what his administration describes as drug and security threats.
Latin American leaders and international observers are watching closely, as the strained diplomacy raises the spectre of increased military engagements and deeper fracturing in the U.S.–Latin America relations.
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