Colombian President Gustavo Petro is heading to Washington for a high-stakes trip to meet US President Donald Trump, marking their first in-person meeting after months of escalating tensions and harsh rhetoric.
The agenda for their upcoming meeting at the White House on Tuesday will include discussions surrounding Venezuela, drug trafficking, oil security, and US military operations targeting alleged drug vessels.
Despite earlier tensions following a US military operation against Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, both leaders reportedly had a cordial phone call earlier this month. However, they remain deeply divided on issues such as US military involvement in Colombia, which Petro views as a significant threat.
Trump has previously indicated his support for military action in Colombia, complicating the already strained relationship. Petro has condemned US actions, including strikes on drug boats, and criticized US immigration policies harshly, comparing ICE agents to Nazi brigades.
The two leaders have exchanged sharp criticisms recently, but a recent phone conversation seemed to mark a turning point, suggesting an openness to improving relations. US Senator Rand Paul played a role in facilitating this dialogue, believing in the necessity of diplomatic relations for both nations.
Areas of cooperation will likely revolve around the security threats posed by the National Liberation Army (ELN) operating in the border region with Venezuela. This group is notorious for its involvement in drug trafficking and has been aligned with corrupt Venezuelan military elements.
With Trump looking to secure US interests, especially in the wake of Maduro's removal, addressing the ELN's influence will be crucial. Despite the ongoing tensions, collaboration continues between Colombian military forces and US agencies, with hopes that the meeting may lead to a positive shift for bilateral relations.
However, the potential for conflict remains, as Trump has a history of abruptly changing his stance. For Petro, the outcomes of this meeting could significantly affect the electoral future of his successor, Senator Iván Cepeda. Thus, the stakes are considerably high for both leaders as they navigate this complex diplomatic landscape.
