Trump and Petro clash over how best to uproot Colombia’s cocaine crops

Donald Trump hosted Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House amid ongoing scrutiny of Colombia's anti-drug strategy. The meeting comes after months of hostile exchanges between the two leaders, with Trump accusing Petro of contributing to cocaine trafficking into the United States, while Petro has criticized U.S. actions in Venezuela. The visit is seen as an effort to mend strained diplomatic relations between Colombia and the U.S., which have been marked by sharp disagreements over drug policy and military actions. During the closed-door meeting, which had no press access, the leaders attempted to set aside their previous insults. Trump and Petro had previously exchanged derogatory remarks, with Trump labeling Petro as a "drug trafficking leader" and Petro referring to Trump as an "accomplice to genocide" with a "senile brain." Despite this history, the meeting concluded with amicable gestures, including warm words and autographs exchanged between the two leaders. The discussions were expected to focus on cooperation in counter-narcotics efforts and other shared concerns, marking a significant moment in U.S.-Colombia relations. This meeting follows Trump's earlier comments suggesting that Petro could face a fate similar to that of Nicolás Maduro, highlighting the tense backdrop against which this diplomatic engagement is taking place. The visit signifies a potential shift in the dynamics of U.S.-Colombia relations after a period of intense diplomatic tension.