Politics

On Wednesday, January 7, United States President Donald Trump extended an invitation to Colombian President Gustavo Petro to visit the White House. This invitation came just days after Trump had threatened military action against Petro due to alleged drug trafficking activities. On January 3, Trump warned Petro to “watch his ass” following a U.S. operation that resulted in the ousting of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. After their first phone conversation since Trump assumed office, the 79-year-old Republican mentioned that he was planning to meet with Petro “in the near future.” Trump shared on his Truth Social platform that Petro had reached out to discuss issues related to drugs and other disputes they have faced. He expressed appreciation for Petro’s call and tone, stating he looked forward to meeting him soon at the White House. Earlier, U.S. forces had conducted an operation in Caracas, targeting military locations in an attempt to remove Maduro from power and reinforce U.S. influence over the oil-rich nation of Venezuela. While speaking to reporters on Air Force One on Sunday, Trump reiterated similar threats towards Colombia, accusing Petro of being involved in drug trafficking without providing any proof. He also imposed financial sanctions on Petro and his family. When asked if a military intervention like that in Venezuela was possible for Colombia, Trump replied, “It sounds good to me.”