trump Suggests Military action in Colombia,Petro Highlights Drug Lab Destruction
WASHINGTON D.C. – Former President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to take military action in Colombia to dismantle cocaine production facilities, a shift from previous praise of Colombian President Claudia Sheinbaum’s anti-drug cooperation. The statements, made during a press briefing in the Oval Office amidst the ongoing Operation Southern Spear targeting drug trafficking in Latin America, drew a swift response from Colombian president Gustavo Petro.
Trump stated he would “probably talk” to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, but criticized Maduro’s regime, accusing it of sending illegal immigrants – including members of the Tren de Aragua gang – to the United States. “I am not keen about those who govern Venezuela. I love Venezuela. I love the Venezuelan people,but what they have done to this country is unacceptable,” Trump said. He also suggested potential discussions with Maduro “because Venezuela wants to talk,” following a previously announced determination on measures regarding the country.
Responding to Trump’s comments, Petro highlighted his own management’s efforts to combat drug production. “How proud I will be that in my government 10,366 cocaine production laboratories have been destroyed,” Petro stated, adding that Senator Marco Rubio had not informed Trump of this progress.
The U.S. State Department has announced it will designate the Cartel of the Suns, a group linked to Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO) as of November 24. Operation Southern Spear has increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, raising tensions with Venezuela amid concerns of a potential U.S. military intervention within its territory.
