Tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro have sharply escalated following a U.S. operation targeting Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

Axar.az, citing Axios, reports that Petro condemned the operation and openly challenged Trump, warning that any U.S. military action in Colombia would lead to civilian deaths, renewed guerrilla warfare, and mass unrest.

Colombia’s Foreign Ministry rejected threats or use of force, calling instead for dialogue and mutual respect.

Trump responded with personal attacks on Petro, accusing him of running cocaine operations and suggesting a U.S. strike on Colombia “sounds good.”

The White House defended Trump’s stance by citing the Monroe Doctrine and the need to combat drug trafficking and protect U.S. security.