United States President Donald Trump has issued a blunt warning to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, telling him to “watch your ass” following a dramatic US military operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.
Trump made the remark on Saturday during a press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, just hours after American forces carried out coordinated air and ground strikes in Caracas and seized the Venezuelan leader and his wife.
Trump Issues Warning After Maduro Seizure
Responding to questions about Colombia’s reaction to the operation, Trump accused Petro’s government of failing to curb cocaine production.
“He has cocaine mills. He has factories where cocaine is made,” Trump said. “They’re sending it into the United States, so yes, he does have to watch his ass.”
The US president suggested that Colombia’s drug trade posed a national security threat, while stopping short of detailing any immediate military plans against the country.
Colombia Reacts to Venezuela Operation
Earlier, President Petro criticised the US action in Venezuela, expressing concern about escalating tensions in the region.
In a statement posted on X, Petro said Colombia viewed reports of explosions and aerial activity in Venezuela with “deep concern,” warning that the operation risked destabilising South America.
Colombia Fortifies Border With Venezuela
Following the seizure of Maduro, Colombian authorities announced plans to strengthen security along the country’s 2,219-kilometre eastern border with Venezuela.
However, Petro dismissed Trump’s allegations, insisting his administration actively dismantles drug operations. He said Colombia destroys cocaine laboratories at a rapid pace without the use of missiles or foreign intervention.
Details of US Military Action
Trump described the Venezuela raid as one of the most significant US military operations in recent decades.
According to US officials, the assault involved more than 150 aircraft, supported by intelligence operations that culminated in the arrest of Maduro and his wife. They were later flown to the United States to face charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and weapons offences.
Rising International Concern
The operation has drawn sharp reactions globally. The United Nations warned that the strikes could violate international law, while China and France condemned the action as destabilising.
Meanwhile, analysts say Trump’s warning to Colombia reflects a broader shift toward aggressive enforcement of US drug and security policy in the region.
