When the Jaguar Stirs: Colombia Pushes Back Against Washington’s Expanding War
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has warned that any U.S. military strikes on Colombian territory would “wake the jaguar,” signaling a major shift in the country’s tolerance for foreign intervention. The clash began after President Donald Trump suggested expanding anti-drug operations into Colombia, accusing the nation of allowing cocaine production to flourish. Petro rejected the idea as an attack on national sovereignty, escalating a feud that has already strained diplomatic relations, disrupted cooperation on narcotics, and raised fears of renewed U.S. intervention in Latin America. As Washington increases its military presence near Venezuela and intensifies maritime strikes, Colombia’s warning marks a decisive moment in the region’s geopolitical landscape.
