Colombian President Gustavo Petro made a bold statement on Monday, declaring that he would “take up arms again” if his country is attacked. This declaration was in response to US President Donald Trump’s warning that Colombia could be a target for military action due to drug trafficking activities.

After a period of silence, Petro took to X to accuse US Secretary Marco Rubio of believing false information provided by intelligence colonels in the Colombian police, whom he has since dismissed.

He blamed Colombian politicians with ties to the mafia for spreading lies about him in an attempt to strain relations between the US and Colombia, leading to an increase in global cocaine trafficking.

The US State Department recently identified Colombia as a major drug transit and production hub, citing a surge in coca cultivation and cocaine production under President Petro’s leadership.

Despite these allegations, Petro denied any involvement in drug trafficking and corruption, emphasizing his government’s efforts to combat narcotics while prioritizing civilian safety.

He defended his decision to conduct targeted bombings on coca leaf plantations and armed groups associated with drug trafficking, highlighting the risks of collateral damage, particularly involving children.

Expressing his commitment to protecting his people, Petro warned that he would take up arms if faced with military aggression, despite his previous vow to refrain from violence following a peace agreement in 1989.

Trump’s recent remarks suggesting potential military action against Colombia have escalated tensions between the two nations, with Petro urging his supporters to defend his presidency and resist any illegitimate acts of violence.

As the situation unfolds, Petro remains steadfast in his defiance against external threats, standing by his record as a democratically elected leader dedicated to eradicating drug-related crime in Colombia.

Trump’s warnings and Petro’s bold stance have set the stage for a potential showdown between the two leaders, with the future of US-Colombia relations hanging in the balance.