Colombian leader invites Trump for firsthand look at anti-drug efforts

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has issued a direct invitation to US President Donald Trump to visit Colombia and observe its anti-narcotics campaign firsthand, challenging recent American criticism. The public offer, made via social media platform X, comes in response to Trump labeling Petro as "hostile" and suggesting Colombia could face consequences if drug flows continue.

Defending Colombia's counternarcotics record

In his detailed post, Petro strongly defended his administration's efforts, stating they had executed the largest single cocaine seizure in global history, confiscating 2,700 tons of the drug. He further noted the Colombian military had conducted over 1,400 ground operations and numerous aerial bombardments targeting cartel leadership, mostly based on joint intelligence. The message framed these actions as evidence of a robust, ongoing campaign.

Rejecting strikes, calling for financial cooperation

A core element of Petro's response was a firm rejection of cross-border military strikes as a viable strategy, referencing recent US operations against vessels in Venezuelan waters. He described such missile attacks as ineffective and a breach of national sovereignty. Instead, the Colombian president called for genuine international cooperation focused on dismantling the financial networks that fuel the global drug trade, urging collaborative action over unilateral threats.

A diplomatic challenge amid rising tensions

The exchange highlights escalating diplomatic friction over drug policy in the Americas. Petro's invitation represents a strategic move to shift the narrative from accusation to demonstrated action, placing the onus on the US leader to engage directly with Colombia's reality. The stance underscores a broader regional debate pitting militarized interdiction against strategies targeting criminal economics and sovereignty.