Tensions rise as Trump targets Colombian President over Venezuela action

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, telling him to “be careful,” following a U.S. military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.

In a video shared by BRICS News on X, Trump defended earlier remarks he made about Petro, accusing Colombia of being involved in cocaine production.

“He’s running factories that make cocaine and they send it into the United States.

“So yes, he needs to be careful,” Trump said during a press briefing at his Mar-a-Lago resort.

President Petro had earlier condemned the U.S. operation in Venezuela, saying Colombia was monitoring reports of explosions and unusual air activity and expressing concern about rising regional tensions.

Colombia also announced plans to reinforce its long border with Venezuela.

Responding to Trump’s accusations, Petro said he was not worried and invited the U.S. president to visit Colombia, insisting his government regularly destroys illegal drug laboratories.

Trump described the U.S. action in Venezuela as a major demonstration of military strength, saying dozens of aircraft took part in coordinated operations.

Maduro and his wife were reportedly captured and flown out of the country to face drug-related charges in the United States.

Trump also referenced previous warnings to Nigeria, saying the U.S. could suspend aid — and even intervene — if authorities fail to curb attacks on Christian communities.