Story perspectives

Trump Threatens Colombia: Military Action on the Table

12/14/2025

Center

Trump Targets Petro

U.S. President Donald Trump escalated threats against Colombian President Gustavo Petro, saying Petro could be the next target in the U.S. anti-drug campaign.
Colombia was decertified as a drug-control partner.
U.S. aid to Colombia was reduced.
Trump proposed expanding military operations from Venezuela to Colombia and Mexico.
The Colombian embassy has not commented on these developments.

Left

ELN Defends Against Trump

The National Liberation Army (ELN), a left-wing rebel group in Colombia, announced a lockdown to prepare for defense against perceived "imperialist intervention" from the U.S.
This announcement follows President Donald Trump's threats of military action against cocaine-producing nations.
Colombia's Defense Minister condemned the ELN's directive, stating that government troops would remain active.
Tensions have escalated as the U.S. increases pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, linking the ELN's strength to his regime.
The ELN has faced failed peace negotiations with Colombia's government after a deadly attack in January 2023 that killed over 100 people.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. War on Drugs, initiated in 1989 under President George H.W. Bush, significantly influenced Colombia's military aid and drug policies. By 2000, the U.S. had provided over $1.3 billion to Colombia to combat drug trafficking. Recent tensions between President Trump and President Petro reflect ongoing U.S. intervention, as Colombia grapples with violence from groups like the ELN, exacerbated by these historical policies.

1 of 3

Trump Targets Petro

U.S. President Donald Trump escalated threats against Colombian President Gustavo Petro, saying Petro could be the next target in the U.S. anti-drug campaign.
Colombia was decertified as a drug-control partner.
U.S. aid to Colombia was reduced.
Trump proposed expanding military operations from Venezuela to Colombia and Mexico.
The Colombian embassy has not commented on these developments.

1 / 3