Petro-Trump clash over Venezuela puts Colombia in a difficult position

President Gustavo Petro sharply criticized the U.S. operation that captured Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro, and Colombian officials have reassured Washington they will continue security and counternarcotics cooperation despite the dispute.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro strongly condemned the U.S. operation that captured Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro. He called for public demonstrations and convened emergency meetings at the United Nations and the Organization of American States. Colombian ministers moved quickly to reassure Washington that security and counternarcotics cooperation will continue. Key points: - Petro denounced the U.S. action and urged Colombians to defend national sovereignty. - U.S. President Donald Trump publicly criticized Petro and suggested the possibility of a U.S. military operation in Colombia. - Colombia's interior and justice ministers notified U.S. intelligence they would continue coordination on counternarcotics; the defense minister said security cooperation remains in place. - Officials said the spat complicates Colombia's political landscape ahead of presidential and legislative elections. Summary: The public clash has increased diplomatic strain and forced Colombian leaders to balance domestic political positioning with maintaining security ties to the United States. Undetermined at this time.