Bogotá, Colombia – Colombia’s Foreign Minister Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio has warned that her country would respond with military action to any foreign aggression, following threatening comments from US President Donald Trump aimed at Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

Villavicencio emphasized that, under international law, every country has the right to self-defense in the event of an attack. She stated:

“If such aggression were to occur, the military must defend the national territory and the country’s sovereignty.”

Her remarks come in the wake of the US military operation in Venezuela, which resulted in the deaths of dozens and the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores.

---

Trump Threatens Colombia and Latin America

On Saturday, Trump announced the operation in Venezuela, asserting that the Western Hemisphere is his sphere of influence. He said the military action was intended as a warning to anyone who might threaten American sovereignty or citizens.

Trump drew a controversial parallel between Venezuela and Colombia, referring to Petro as a “sick man” allegedly involved in cocaine trafficking, despite no evidence supporting these claims. He further suggested the possibility of US intervention in Colombia, stating, “Sounds good to me.”

---

Colombia’s Response to Allegations

President Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first left-wing leader, condemned the US threats and emphasized Latin American unity against foreign interference. Petro called the US operation “the first bombing of a South American capital in all of human history”, warning that the actions would leave a generational impact.

Petro also referenced his past as a rebel fighter during Colombia’s internal conflict, noting that while he had sworn off weapons after the 1989 peace agreement, he would defend Colombia if necessary.

Foreign Minister Villavicencio highlighted Colombia’s commitment to tackling drug trafficking with rigor and a comprehensive approach, dismissing Trump’s allegations against Petro.

“An offence against the president is an offence against our country and a disregard for all the democratic processes that we have carried out,” she said.

Villavicencio is scheduled to meet with US Department of State officials to discuss the escalating tensions and reaffirm Colombia’s sovereignty.

---

Colombia’s Anti-Drug Efforts

Colombia has actively pursued cocaine interdiction, seizing 14 tonnes in November 2025, the largest haul in a decade, valued at nearly $388.9 million. Petro’s government has destroyed drug laboratories and intercepted shipments, highlighting the country’s efforts to combat narcotics despite Trump’s accusations.

---

Regional Implications and Escalating Tensions

The threats against Colombia follow a pattern of US military adventurism in Latin America, particularly after the Venezuelan operation. Analysts warn that such rhetoric risks destabilizing the region and undermining sovereignty and democratic governance.

Colombia’s firm stance underscores the potential for military escalation if foreign threats continue, while reinforcing the need for diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions.