Colombia and US try to mend ties after months of insults

Donald Trump hosted Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House in a closed-door meeting aimed at addressing ongoing tensions between the two nations, particularly regarding drug trafficking. This visit occurred less than two weeks after Trump suggested that Petro could face a fate similar to Nicolás Maduro’s. The meeting follows months of hostile exchanges between the leaders, with Trump accusing Petro of contributing to cocaine trafficking into the United States, while Petro has criticized U.S. actions in Venezuela. 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. During the meeting, which was not open to the press, Trump and Petro attempted to set aside their previous insults. Trump had labeled Petro as a "drug trafficking leader," while Petro referred to Trump as an "accomplice to genocide" with a "senile brain." Despite this contentious history, the meeting concluded with amicable gestures, including warm words and autographs exchanged between the two leaders. This interaction signifies an effort to mend strained diplomatic relations, which have been marked by sharp disagreements over drug policy and military actions. The visit is viewed as a potential shift in the dynamics of U.S.-Colombia relations after a period of intense diplomatic tension. The leaders' previous derogatory remarks highlight the backdrop against which this diplomatic engagement is taking place. The meeting is seen as an important step toward resetting relations between Bogotá and Washington, emphasizing the need for cooperation on counter-narcotics and other mutual concerns.