In a striking diplomatic reversal, former President Donald Trump has publicly lauded Colombian leader Gustavo Petro following a previously contentious relationship. The abrupt shift occurred Wednesday evening when Trump announced via his social media platform that the two heads of state had engaged in a productive telephone conversation regarding bilateral concerns.
Trump characterized the exchange as ‘a Great Honor,’ revealing that President Petro initiated the call to address ongoing disputes, particularly surrounding narcotics trafficking and other contentious issues between the nations. The former president notably commended his counterpart’s diplomatic approach, stating he ‘appreciated his call and tone’ during their discussion.
This conciliatory gesture marks a dramatic departure from Trump’s rhetoric earlier this week, when he asserted Colombia was ‘very sick’ under Petro’s leadership and made unsubstantiated allegations regarding the president’s personal involvement in cocaine distribution to American markets. Those remarks came in response to U.S. military operations in neighboring Venezuela, with Trump suggesting potential intervention in Colombia might be warranted.
The newly announced White House invitation signals potential normalization of relations between the conservative former president and Colombia’s first leftist leader. Both parties have expressed anticipation for the forthcoming meeting, though specific dates remain unconfirmed at this time.