Colombian Leader Declares 'I Shall Take Up Arms Once More' should US Intervenes Militarily.

President Trump and President Gustavo Petro have escalated the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, heightening strains in their relations after American military units targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust President Nicolás Maduro from his position.

"He operates cocaine mills and processing labs and is not going to be doing it very long," the US president stated.

Rising Threats coupled with Allegations

Addressing the press on Sunday, the American leader hinted at comparable use of force against Colombia, asserting the country faces serious problems and led by a problematic figure who enjoys creating the drug and distributing it to America."

Although Colombia remains the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally connected to the illicit industry.

A Strained Partnership

The country for decades served as a key ally of Washington in the struggle against drug trafficking and enjoyed cross-party backing in Washington, but relations have soured dramatically after Trump assumed the presidency.

The nation's illicit drug economy is predominantly run by illegal armed groups including the Golf Clan, another leftist insurgency and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members laid down arms after a landmark accord.

Colombia's Firm Rebuttal

Upon being questioned if armed intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."

President Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who left armed struggle decades ago, categorically refuted the accusations. "I am not illegitimate nor am I involved in narcotics," he affirmed.

"Trump speaks uninformed. Cease defaming me," he posted in a message.

"If US bombs target rural communities, they will turn into a multitude of fighters in the hills. And if they detain the nation's leader, whom a large part of the country loves and respects, they will provoke the ‘jaguar’ of the nation," Petro warned.

From Fighter to Leader

He passed a period in his early life participating in the left-wing M-19 guerrilla group though it is believed to have ever took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he took part in drafting a new constitution in the early 90s and later became a prominent senator. He was mayor of Bogotá prior to his election president.

"I made a vow to never again hold arms again ... but for the homeland I will take up weapons once more," he said.

Increased Security along with Widespread Condemnation

Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that the national leader's protection team was strengthened.

Several members of Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with Trump's stance, yet figures from all sides of Colombian politics have condemned the possibility of an invasion targeting Colombia.

Diplomatic and Economic Sanctions

Washington cancelled Petro’s visa subsequent to he called on US military personnel to disobey orders that violate law. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes on Petro, his wife and various associates.

At the same time the US was building up its troop levels in the region and striking suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets also carried out operations on boats in Pacific waters off the Colombian coast.