US President Donald Trump has invited Colombian President Gustavo Petro to the White House, days after issuing threats of military action over alleged drug trafficking.
The invitation came after the first phone conversation between the two leaders since Trump assumed office in January. Speaking on Wednesday night, Trump said a meeting with Petro was being planned “in the near future.”
“President Petro called to explain the situation regarding drugs and other disagreements we’ve had,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “I appreciated his call and tone, and I look forward to meeting him soon at the White House.”
The development follows heightened tensions between Washington and Bogotá. Last week, Trump warned Petro to “watch his ass” after US forces carried out a surprise operation in neighbouring Venezuela that removed President Nicolás Maduro from power. Over the weekend, Trump escalated his rhetoric, accusing Petro—without providing evidence—of links to drug trafficking and announcing financial sanctions against the Colombian leader and his family. When asked if military intervention in Colombia was possible, Trump responded, “It sounds good to me.”
Petro reacted sharply to the comments, saying on Monday that he was prepared to “take up arms” in response to such threats. Colombia’s deputy foreign minister, Mauricio Jaramillo, also cautioned that US military actions in the region could spark a “catastrophe” across Latin America.
Despite the heated exchanges, Petro confirmed his intention to attend the proposed White House meeting, though no date has been set. Addressing supporters at a rally on Wednesday, he said he initially planned a strong response but softened his stance after what he described as an hour-long phone call with Trump.
Petro added that he used the conversation to push for renewed direct communication between the two countries’ presidents and foreign ministries.
Colombia and the United States have historically shared close military and economic ties, even as recent events have placed strain on their diplomatic relationship.
