Colombian President Gustavo Petro delivered a pointed critique of US foreign policy, framing it as a century-long pursuit of power rooted in oil and coal interests. He linked this strategic posture to the United States’ actions in Venezuela, where Washington’s military operation captured President Nicolás Maduro in early January 2026 — a move the US characterised as law enforcement amid broader strikes and oil-related enforcement in the Caribbean.  

In the transcript, Petro described a threat from US President Donald Trump’s remarks about possible military action in Colombia and strongly rejected Trump’s personal accusations of cocaine trafficking, highlighting his anti-cartel record.

Following recent tensions, the two presidents conducted a phone call and agreed to meet at the White House in the near future, signalling intent to reset US–Colombia relations despite their sharp public exchange.  

ℹ️ BBC News

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BBC speaks to Colombian President Gustavo (Photo credit: BBC)
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