United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday (January 7) invited his Colombian counterpart Gustavo Petro to the White House, just days after issuing threats of military action over alleged drug trafficking.
The invitation followed the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump took office in January. Trump said Petro called to explain disagreements related to drugs and other bilateral issues.
“I appreciated his call and tone, and I look forward to meeting him in the near future at the White House,” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.
The move marks a notable shift after Trump warned Petro on January 3 to “watch his ass,” following U.S. forces’ military operation in neighbouring Venezuela that resulted in the removal of President Nicolás Maduro. Trump later suggested that similar military action against Colombia was a possibility, accusing Petro—without presenting evidence—of involvement in drug trafficking and imposing financial sanctions on him and his family.
Petro responded earlier this week by saying he was ready to “take up arms” if Colombia were threatened, and he called for demonstrations across the country in defiance of Trump’s remarks.
However, Petro later confirmed he plans to attend the White House meeting, for which no date has yet been announced. Addressing supporters, he said he had initially planned to deliver a tough speech but softened his stance following the hour-long phone call with Trump. He added that he urged the re-establishment of direct communication channels between the two governments.
Colombia and the United States have a long history of military and economic cooperation, and both sides now appear to be seeking to ease tensions through dialogue.
