BOGOTÁ — Diplomatic tensions between Colombia and the United States have escalated sharply after President Donald Trump accused his Colombian counterpart of being “a leader of drug traffickers” and threatened new tariffs against the South American nation.
According to international media reports, Colombia has recalled its ambassador, Daniel García-Peña, from Washington in protest against Trump’s remarks and his administration’s proposed trade restrictions.
The dispute intensified after Colombia condemned U.S. military strikes in the Caribbean, where American forces targeted suspected drug boats. The attacks reportedly killed dozens of people, including three civilians from impoverished local families, according to Colombian officials.
In response to Bogotá’s criticism, President Trump labeled Colombian President Gustavo Petro as a “friend of drug dealers,” warning that U.S. financial aid would be cut off and trade tariffs imposed.
President Petro firmly rejected the allegations, saying, “I am neither a businessman nor a drug dealer. Greed does not drive me, and I will not tolerate any insult to my country.”
Political observers warn that the rift could further strain U.S.-Latin America relations, particularly at a time when the region faces mounting economic and political uncertainty.
