Trump’s other Latin American feud: why Colombia’s Petro is not Maduro

Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated that Colombia is maintaining cooperation with the United States on combating narcotics despite recent threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. The comments, made in an Al Jazeera interview published on January 9, 2026, follow escalating rhetoric and a phone call between Petro and Trump on Wednesday. Trump had accused Petro of running cocaine mills and suggested potential military action against Colombia after the abduction of Venezuelan President Maduro. Petro affirmed his commitment to defending Colombia, but emphasized the importance of open communication with the U.S., despite past information being filtered through unofficial channels. Petro also called for a shared government through dialogue in Venezuela, leading to elections.

In January 2026, a phone call between U.S. President Trump and Colombian President Petro averted a potential crisis after Trump appeared to threaten military action against Colombia. The 55-minute call, the first between the two leaders, marked a shift from their previous pattern of social media attacks against each other. Arranged hastily by both governments, the call aimed to re-establish dialogue between the long-standing allies amidst regional volatility following the U.S. seizure of Venezuela's president. While no concrete proposals were made, Trump announced a potential White House visit, raising hopes that Petro could navigate U.S. demands while staying true to his ideology as his term nears its end.

The Venezuelan government has begun releasing political prisoners, including Spanish nationals and prominent activist Rocío San Miguel, as a goodwill gesture. This action follows the US seizure of President Nicolás Maduro to face drug trafficking charges in New York. Jorge Rodríguez, head of the National Assembly, announced the release of a "significant number" of prisoners in the interest of national unity. While the exact number of released prisoners remains unclear, hundreds are still detained. Human rights organizations have cautiously welcomed the news. The interim government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, appears more cooperative with the US since Maduro's capture, with plans to close the notorious El Helicoide prison where many political opponents were held.

Following the U.S. capture and arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela faces increased instability as armed militias, guerrilla groups, and criminal networks exploit the power vacuum. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, backed by the U.S., now leads the country, but analysts warn that heavily armed groups could derail any progress toward stability. Key figures like Diosdado Cabello and Vladimir Padrino must be kept onside to maintain order. Government-aligned militias are already deployed in cities to suppress dissent, while guerrilla groups and organized crime are expanding their influence along Venezuela's borders and in resource-rich areas. The situation creates an environment of instability that benefits these armed actors.

In January 2026, Donald Trump invited Colombian President Gustavo Petro to the White House after a phone call between the two leaders. This invitation occurred days after Trump threatened military action against Colombia, accusing Petro of drug trafficking. The call, which lasted an hour, involved discussions about drug issues and other disagreements. Petro stated that the call re-established communication and addressed Venezuela and drug trafficking. Petro also accused Colombian politicians of misleading Trump, leading to the diplomatic crisis. Arrangements are underway for a meeting in Washington, D.C., though a specific date was not provided.

In January 2026, tensions between U.S. President Trump and Colombian President Petro de-escalated after a phone call initiated by Petro to address disagreements, particularly regarding drugs. This call followed Trump's recent criticism of Petro and suggestions of military action against Colombia. Trump expressed appreciation for Petro's call and announced that Secretary of State Rubio is arranging a White House meeting between the two leaders. The hour-long call, facilitated by the U.S. Embassy in Colombia, occurred around the same time as planned demonstrations in Colombia in response to Trump's earlier threats. The State Department had previously revoked Petro's visa following his controversial remarks at a pro-Palestinian rally.

Thousands of Colombians protested in cities across the country on Wednesday against potential U.S. military intervention following Donald Trump's remarks about expanding military action into Colombia after an attack in Venezuela. The protests, including in Cúcuta and Bogotá, were sparked by a U.S. special forces raid in Caracas, Venezuela, where President Nicolás Maduro was captured. Demonstrators voiced anger at Trump's perceived aggression and interventionist policies. Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who organized the rallies, initially condemned the events in Venezuela as illegal. However, Petro softened his stance after his first conversation with Trump, expressing willingness to meet while urging caution.

In January 2026, US President Donald Trump indicated that the US role in Venezuela could last for years following the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro by US special forces. Trump refrained from giving a specific timeline but suggested it would extend beyond a year. The US has asserted control over Venezuela, particularly its oil sales, despite claims from interim leader Delcy Rodriguez that no foreign power governs Caracas. Trump stated the US is working well with Rodriguez's government, while the Venezuelan interior minister reported that 100 people were killed during the US operation to abduct Maduro. Maduro was taken to New York to face drug and weapons charges.

In a New York Times interview on January 8, 2026, President Trump stated that the U.S. oversight of Venezuela, including oil extraction, could last for years. He indicated the U.S. would rebuild Venezuela profitably, using and taking its oil to lower prices and provide the country with needed funds. These remarks followed administration officials announcing plans to control Venezuela's oil sales indefinitely. While Republicans largely support the administration's actions, Democrats have expressed concerns about a potentially lengthy intervention without clear legal justification. Trump did not specify a timeline for the U.S. role in Venezuela, suggesting it would be "much longer" than a few months.

Following a US raid that ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, President Trump indicated that US involvement in Venezuela could last for years. In an interview with the New York Times, Trump stated that the US would "oversee" the country, but did not specify when or if elections would be held. He also said the US would control Venezuelan oil sales "indefinitely" and would be "taking oil" from the country, with the interim government using proceeds to buy US goods. Trump acknowledged Delcy Rodríguez as Venezuela's interim leader, stating she is in constant communication with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and is cooperating with US demands. Despite expectations of opposition leaders returning, Trump dismissed María Corina Machado's leadership potential.

According to Venezuelan officials, a U.S. military operation, "Operation Absolute Resolve," to capture President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas, Venezuela, resulted in approximately 100 deaths. The operation, led by Delta Force, took place over the weekend. Venezuela's interior minister, Diosdado Cabello, reported Maduro sustained a leg injury and his wife, Cilia Flores, a head injury. Cuba claims 32 of its military personnel, who were in Venezuela at the request of the government, were also killed during the operation. A U.S. official stated that seven U.S. service members were injured, with five already returned to duty. Venezuela has declared a week of mourning for the deceased military members.

In January 2026, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported that at least 100 people were killed in what he described as a US attack in Venezuela. The attack allegedly occurred on Saturday and resulted in the ousting of President Nicolas Maduro. Dozens more were reportedly wounded in the incident. The minister attributed the casualties and the change in leadership to the actions of the United States. The specific details and motivations behind the alleged US attack were not provided in the report.

Following the reported seizure of Nicolás Maduro, the Trump administration has warned Diosdado Cabello, a key Maduro ally, that he could face similar consequences if he doesn't support acting president Delcy Rodríguez. US officials are concerned Cabello might disrupt their plan to maintain stability within Maduro's inner circle during a transition period and secure access to Venezuelan oil. The US aims to stabilize Venezuela, ensure fair market access for American and Western companies, and begin a reconciliation process before transitioning to new leadership. The US has also seized Russian-flagged oil tankers allegedly transporting Venezuelan oil illegally. Cabello, who controls police forces, has responded by displaying his power on social media.

Following the seizure of Nicolás Maduro by the United States, Venezuelans are facing an uncertain future. Maduro and his wife were taken to the U.S. to face drug trafficking and weapons charges after an operation in Caracas that reportedly resulted in dozens of deaths, including Cuban security forces. While some Venezuelans are cautiously welcoming Maduro's removal, others, like Rosa Contreras, feel humiliated and are protesting his detention. Maduro's vice-president, Delcy Rodríguez, has assumed interim power, and police are patrolling the streets, with reports of journalists being detained. The U.S. government has stated it will "run" Venezuela, but the specifics of this plan remain unclear, leaving many unsure of what will happen next.

Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela's Interior Minister, Justice and Peace, is a key figure in the government of ousted President Nicolas Maduro. A long-time ally of both Maduro and Hugo Chavez, Cabello participated in a rally supporting Maduro in Caracas on January 6, 2026, after Maduro's abduction. Some analysts consider him the most powerful person in Venezuela. Cabello served in various roles under Chavez, including chief of staff and minister of interior and justice. He was also involved in Chavez's failed 1992 coup attempt. A UN human rights mission accused Cabello in 2024 of cracking down on dissent and critical media coverage of Maduro's government.

Cuba's official newspaper, Granma, reported that 32 Cuban military personnel were killed in Venezuela during what it described as a U.S. military operation against Nicolás Maduro. The Cuban government stated the deceased were part of missions representing the Revolutionary Armed Forces and the Ministry of the Interior, carried out at the request of Venezuela's government. The Cuban Foreign Minister condemned the U.S. action and asserted Cuba's readiness to defend itself against any U.S. intervention. The deceased, ranging in age from 26 to 60, included colonels, lieutenants, majors, captains, and reserve soldiers. Cuba announced two days of mourning following the incident.

Following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro by US military forces, Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, asserted that Venezuela is not being governed by any foreign agent. This statement comes after Maduro and his wife pleaded not guilty to drug-trafficking charges in a New York court. Venezuela's prosecutor general condemned the US military operation as an act of terrorism and demanded Maduro's release. The operation, which resulted in numerous deaths, has been widely criticized as a violation of international law, with Venezuela and Cuba reporting military casualties. While President Trump initially stated the US would "run" Venezuela, Secretary of State Rubio later clarified that the US would guide the country's direction through sanctions and access to its oil industry.

In January 2026, the U.S. is pressuring the interim Venezuelan government, led by Delcy Rodríguez, to expel advisors from Cuba, China, Russia, and Iran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined these demands in a classified meeting with congressional leaders. The U.S. seeks the removal of spies and military personnel from these countries, while potentially allowing some diplomats to remain. This follows the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces and aims to reopen the oil trade between Venezuela and the United States, potentially requiring Venezuela to alter its nationalized oil industry. Rodríguez is attempting to balance protecting Venezuela's sovereignty with avoiding antagonism from the U.S.

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado praised Donald Trump in a Fox News interview, offering to share her Nobel Peace Prize with him. This occurred after the U.S. captured Nicolás Maduro and Trump declined to support Machado as a successor. Machado appealed to Trump, who has instead conditionally backed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader, citing Machado's lack of support within Venezuela. Machado stated the opposition would transform Venezuela into a U.S. ally and energy hub, seeking to attract foreign investment and repatriate Venezuelan refugees. The interview took place on Monday, marking Machado's first televised appearance since Maduro's capture. The future of Venezuela's leadership and potential elections remain uncertain.

Following Nicolás Maduro's capture in a US raid, Venezuela's opposition initially celebrated, anticipating a new democratic era under María Corina Machado. However, President Trump quickly dashed those hopes, stating Machado lacked sufficient "respect" and signaling support for Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader. Trump conditioned his support on Rodríguez opening Venezuela's oil reserves to American companies. This decision has caused confusion and frustration within the Venezuelan opposition, who feel their leader has been sidelined. Analysts note the opposition is disappointed by Trump's decision not to back Machado or Edmundo González. Despite this setback, Machado publicly praised Trump's actions while remaining outside of Venezuela.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in January 2026 revealed that Americans are divided on the US military's abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The poll found 33% of Americans support the action, 34% oppose it, and 32% are unsure. Support for the abduction is significantly higher among Republicans (65%) compared to Democrats (11%) and Independents (23%). The poll also indicated that Americans generally oppose the US governing Venezuela, stationing troops there, or taking control of its oil fields. A large majority (72%) expressed concern that the US could become too involved in Venezuela. These results come after President Trump stated the US would "run" Venezuela and threatened further military action.

Following a raid in Venezuela, President Trump has signaled potential interest in other nations, invoking a revised "Donroe Doctrine" asserting US supremacy in the Western Hemisphere. Trump expressed interest in Greenland, citing national security concerns related to Russian and Chinese activity and the island's rare earth minerals and strategic location. Greenland's Prime Minister dismissed the notion of US control as a "fantasy." Trump also warned Colombian President Petro to "watch his ass," amidst disputes over drug trade and US actions against boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. Colombia possesses significant oil reserves and is a major producer of precious metals and coal. These actions suggest a potentially assertive foreign policy approach in Trump's second term.

Following threats from U.S. President Donald Trump against Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Colombian Foreign Minister Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio stated that Colombia would respond militarily to any foreign aggression. Her warning came after a U.S. military attack on Venezuela that resulted in deaths and the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Trump, who described the Western Hemisphere as his sphere of influence, accused Petro of producing and selling cocaine to the U.S. Villavicencio emphasized Colombia's right to self-defense under international law. She is scheduled to meet with U.S. leaders amidst rising tensions in the region.

In 2026, U.S. military strikes in Venezuela targeting President Maduro's security detail resulted in significant Cuban casualties, revealing the extent of Cuba's security presence in Venezuela. At least 32 of the 80 killed were Cuban armed forces or interior ministry members. This highlights Maduro's reliance on Cuban agents for protection amid U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean. Cuba's involvement in Venezuelan security began over two decades prior, after a coup attempt against Hugo Chávez in 2002, when Cuba provided military intelligence and assistance to maintain socialist power. Since then, Cuba has provided extensive support to Venezuela's military and security apparatus.

Following deadly US strikes on Venezuela and the capture of its leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, the US faced strong international condemnation at a UN Security Council emergency meeting on Monday. Several countries, including Brazil, China, Russia, and Spain, denounced the US actions as a "crime of aggression." Despite Republican assurances that the US is not at war, Democratic Senate leadership cautioned about the potential for a new conflict. The situation has also led to the diversion of over 28,000 federal law enforcement personnel to ICE enforcement and removal operations. The article highlights the international fallout and domestic concerns surrounding the US involvement in Venezuela.

In January 2026, the United States abducted Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, leading to global condemnation, including from some US allies within the UN Security Council. Maduro appeared in a New York court, where he pleaded not guilty to drug charges and declared himself a prisoner of war. The UN Security Council convened emergency talks to address the US actions against Venezuela and Maduro's abduction. The international outcry stems from the US government's unprecedented action of abducting a sitting head of state. The situation remains tense as the legal and diplomatic ramifications unfold.

In January 2026, the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting in New York City to address the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife by US special forces. The US intended to bring the pair to face drug trafficking charges in a US federal court. Venezuela, Cuba, Russia, and China condemned the US operation as a violation of international law and an illegitimate armed attack. Even traditional US allies like Mexico and Denmark, who have been threatened by the US in the past, criticized the action. They warned that the abduction sets a dangerous precedent and violates national sovereignty, urging the council to act decisively.

Tensions between the U.S. and Colombia have escalated following U.S. military action in Venezuela. Former U.S. President Trump accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of being a "sick man" involved in cocaine production and hinted at potential military intervention in Colombia. Petro, a former leftist guerrilla, vehemently denied the accusations and warned that U.S. military action would incite widespread rebellion. He stated he would take up arms again to defend Colombia, despite previously vowing not to. The Colombian defense minister has since reinforced the president's security detail. The dispute highlights a deterioration in relations between the two countries, traditionally allies in the fight against drug trafficking.

In January 2026, Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded to threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, stating he would defend Colombia against potential U.S. intervention. Petro's statement followed Trump's accusations that Colombia was facilitating drug trafficking and his suggestion of military action similar to the recent abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. Trump's remarks were denounced by Colombia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as undue interference in internal affairs and a violation of international law. Petro, a former leftist fighter, has been a vocal critic of Trump's policies and denies the accusations of drug trafficking, asserting his government is actively combating drug production. The escalating tensions highlight a growing rift between the two nations.

In January 2026, Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded strongly to comments made by U.S. President Trump suggesting potential military action against Colombia. Trump accused Petro of involvement in cocaine production and implied the U.S. military could be used against Colombia. Petro stated he would defend himself against any illegitimate violent act and ordered Colombian soldiers to prioritize the Colombian flag over the U.S. flag, while also urging the Colombian people to defend him. The remarks followed the seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. Despite the tension, Colombia's defense minister emphasized the continued security cooperation between Colombia and the United States.

Following Nicolas Maduro's arrest by U.S. forces and arraignment in a New York court, Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela's interim president on Monday. Maduro pleaded not guilty to U.S. charges of drug trafficking and terrorism, insisting he was still the legitimate president and a "prisoner of war." The swearing-in ceremony in Venezuela's parliament included demands for Maduro's release. The U.S. defended its actions at the UN, citing Maduro's illegitimacy and the need to secure Venezuela's energy reserves. Venezuela's UN ambassador condemned the U.S. operation as an "illegitimate armed attack."

Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as Venezuela's interim president in Caracas on January 5, 2026. The ceremony, shown on Venezuelan state TV, formalized Rodriguez's assumption of power. She took office following the reported abduction of President Nicolas Maduro, who is facing narco-terrorism charges in New York. Rodriguez previously served as Vice President. The circumstances surrounding Maduro's removal and Rodriguez's subsequent appointment remain unclear.

Following Nicolás Maduro's arrest by U.S. forces on drug trafficking charges, Venezuela has ordered a nationwide manhunt for individuals who supported the military operation that led to his capture. A state of emergency decree, issued Saturday and published Monday, directs police to immediately search for and arrest anyone involved in promoting or supporting the "armed attack by the United States." The decree did not specify the charges those arrested would face. Maduro made his first court appearance in New York on Monday after his arrest over the weekend. The situation follows a period of political crisis in Venezuela.

Nicolás Maduro, the former Venezuelan leader, is scheduled to appear in a Manhattan court to face charges related to drug trafficking and other alleged crimes. The court appearance comes as tensions rise in the region. U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested the possibility of U.S. action against other countries, specifically mentioning Colombia and Mexico. The potential actions were alluded to in connection with the ongoing situation involving Maduro and Venezuela. The exact nature and timing of any potential U.S. actions remain unclear.

In a New York court on January 5, 2026, Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro declared his innocence, stating, "I am still president of my country." Maduro's statement came days after he claimed to have been abducted by the US military. The purpose of his court appearance and the charges against him were not detailed in the provided article. The article highlights Maduro's assertion of his continued presidency and his claim of being a "decent man" amidst the legal proceedings in the United States. The context surrounding the alleged abduction and the specific charges remain unclear based solely on the provided text.

On Monday, demonstrators gathered outside a New York City federal courthouse to protest and celebrate the US capture of Nicolás Maduro, the forcibly removed president of Venezuela. Maduro was in court pleading not guilty to US criminal charges related to international drug trafficking and weapons charges. One group of protesters, including Venezuelan migrants, celebrated Maduro's detention as justice for the suffering he allegedly caused, leading to mass emigration and economic hardship. Across the street, another group, including an activist from the Freedom Road Socialist Organization, protested against US imperialism and intervention in Venezuela, citing the desire of Venezuelans to control their own destiny. The protests, separated by police, highlighted the divided opinions on Maduro's capture and the US role in Venezuela.

On January 4, 2026, the United States allegedly conducted a swift regime change operation in Venezuela. According to the report, the US bombed Venezuela and abducted President Nicolas Maduro and his wife from their compound in Caracas. The report states that Maduro and his wife were then taken to a detention center in New York. The article details the alleged overnight events leading to this change in power. The reasons behind the US's alleged actions were not specified in the provided information.

In January 2026, the United States bombed Venezuela and overthrew President Nicolas Maduro. Maduro and his wife were abducted by U.S. forces and transported to a detention center in New York. There, Maduro is being questioned regarding alleged drug-trafficking charges. The U.S. action follows months of escalating threats and pressure tactics against the Venezuelan government. The events mark a significant escalation in U.S.-Venezuela relations.

Nicolas Maduro, born in Caracas in 1962, rose from a working-class background to become the authoritarian president of Venezuela for over a decade. His political journey began in organized labor, leading to involvement with the Socialist League of Venezuela and political training in Cuba. He later founded a transport workers' union before entering formal politics. Maduro's presidency ended abruptly on January 3, 2026, when U.S. forces abducted him and his wife, First Lady Cilia Flores, to face drug- and weapons-related charges in a U.S. court. His early life included an interest in Western rock music and student politics, though his high school graduation is unconfirmed.

In January 2026, former President Donald Trump stated that the United States would "take back" Venezuela's oil. Trump argued that this action was justified as reimbursement for past US spending. He further claimed the US would "run" Venezuela after seizing President Nicolas Maduro and transporting him to New York. The rationale behind these actions, according to Trump, was to recoup financial investments made by the US. The statements were made publicly, though the specific context and forum were not detailed in the report. The report indicates a potential future intervention by the US in Venezuela's affairs and resources.

Following a U.S. attack that deposed Nicolás Maduro, exiled Venezuelans in Colombia celebrated with cautious optimism. Millions had fled Venezuela over the past decade due to economic collapse and political repression. While the prospect of returning home brought joy and tears, few have actually crossed the border back into Venezuela. The border crossing in Cúcuta, which accounts for 70 percent of traffic between the two countries, remained quiet, with normal commerce continuing. The United Nations and the Colombian government reported that the flow of people in both directions remained normal. Many Venezuelans remain wary, with the road to returning home still uncertain.

In January 2026, the United States conducted a "large scale strike" against Venezuela, according to former US President Donald Trump. Trump claimed that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were captured and removed from the country. US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau stated this marked a "new dawn" for Venezuela. Maduro's government condemned the action as military aggression. Colombian President Gustavo Petro alerted the world to the attack and reiterated the need for peace and respect for international law. US media outlets like Fox News and CBS News also reported on the strikes within Venezuela.

President Trump announced the U.S. will govern Venezuela until a transition can occur. On January 3rd, the U.S. launched strikes in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife. Trump stated the couple was apprehended at a fortified residence and will be transported to New York, with only minor U.S. injuries reported. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced Maduro's indictment in New York on drug and weapons charges, stating he will be prosecuted in American courts. In response, Venezuela declared a national emergency, condemning what it described as "extremely serious military aggression" by the U.S.