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

Following the US military's abduction of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro in January 2026, Democrats in Congress are vowing to introduce a war powers resolution to check President Trump's military actions. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced the party will push for a vote on the resolution within the week. Experts argue the attack on Venezuela represents a clear example of presidential overreach and a violation of both the US Constitution and the UN Charter. Despite these arguments, the resolution faces an uphill battle in Congress, which has historically struggled to limit presidential authority on military matters. The situation is considered a critical test of Congress's willingness to reassert its constitutional power to authorize military engagements.

The BBC is examining the close relationship between Cuba and Venezuela, particularly in light of recent events. Following a military operation in Venezuela where Nicolás Maduro was seized, Cuba's reliance on Venezuelan oil supplies is now potentially vulnerable. The report explores how a collapse of Venezuela's oil supply could negatively impact Havana. Will Grant, the BBC's Cuba correspondent, is reporting from Cúcuta, on the Colombia-Venezuela border, to provide insights into the situation. The report also includes video produced by Marina Costa and Gabriela Boccaccio, and graphics by Jean-li Lee.

Recent events at a CELAC summit and the UN Security Council revealed a growing divide in Latin America regarding the U.S. role in Nicolás Maduro's capture. A joint statement condemning Maduro's detention failed at CELAC due to opposition from several countries, highlighting fractures within the traditionally left-leaning forum. This division reflects a broader regional shift away from socialist and narco-authoritarian rule, as seen in recent elections in countries like Chile and Honduras. The split continued at the UN Security Council, where Latin American and Caribbean states took opposing stances on the U.S. action, with Argentina being the most vocal regional supporter of the United States. These events signal a political realignment in Latin America, influenced by concerns over security, sovereignty, and law and order.

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.

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.

After being apprehended in Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro was brought to New York City to face criminal charges of "narco-terrorism" in a US court. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the US actions were legally justified, accusing Maduro of enabling the transport of cocaine to the US. Maduro, who has long denied these allegations, pleaded not guilty. International law experts are questioning the legality of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting potential violations of international statutes governing the use of force. Despite the international concerns, the US maintains its actions were in accordance with US law, and the case proceeds domestically, though the method of Maduro's apprehension raises complex legal questions.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York City federal court on Monday, January 5, 2026, two days after being abducted from Caracas by US special forces. They pleaded not guilty to US charges of "narco-terrorism" and other offenses. Maduro's lawyers plan to contest the legality of his arrest, citing his immunity as head of state, despite the US not recognizing him as Venezuela's legitimate leader. The couple could face life in prison if convicted of working with drug cartels. Maduro's next court hearing is scheduled for March 17.

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."

In January 2026, the United States reportedly abducted Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro. This action, according to Soraya Lennie's report, has raised concerns about potential US intervention in other nations. The article suggests that President Trump has been issuing increased threats, implying a possible link between the abduction and a more aggressive US foreign policy. The report analyzes who might be most worried by this event and its implications for international relations. The article, published on January 5, 2026, aims to explore the ramifications of the US action and the potential for future interventions.

In January 2026, the United States announced its intention to "run" Venezuela after capturing President Nicolas Maduro. The announcement, made by President Donald Trump, raises questions about sovereignty, oil interests, and regional stability. The US justification for this action and the specific mechanisms of control were not detailed in the initial report. The situation is described as having few modern parallels, prompting concerns about the future of Venezuela and its relationship with the US and other nations. The article suggests the capture of Maduro is the catalyst for the US intervention.

Cilia Flores, Venezuela's former First Lady, was captured by US forces along with her husband, President Nicolás Maduro, and will face drug trafficking and weapons charges in a New York court. Flores, 69, is considered a powerful political figure in Venezuela, having previously led the National Assembly and advised Maduro. She met Maduro in the early 1990s while defending Hugo Chávez and other plotters of a failed coup. After Chávez became president in 1998, Flores ascended in politics, leading the National Assembly from 2006 for six years. Despite presenting a family-oriented public image, Flores is alleged to have been a key advisor to Maduro and has faced accusations of corruption and nepotism.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly criticized President Trump's actions in Venezuela, marking the first clash between the two since Mamdani took office. On Saturday, January 3, 2026, Mamdani revealed he called President Trump to express his opposition to U.S. strikes in Venezuela and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Mamdani stated he told Trump he opposed regime change and violations of international law. Despite past cordiality and a prior meeting at the White House, Mamdani emphasized his duty to represent New Yorkers' interests, even if it meant disagreeing with the president. The White House has not yet commented on the call.

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, President Trump stated his intention to exploit Venezuela's vast oil reserves following the capture of its leader, Nicolás Maduro. Trump indicated that the aggressive U.S. actions were necessary to curb drugs and migration from that country. He claimed American companies would benefit, with profits also reimbursing the U.S. for damages caused by Venezuela. Trump suggested the country's oil wealth was a key factor in his decision to attack, and pledged that the United States would "run" Venezuela for the foreseeable future. While Venezuela holds the world's largest oil reserves, analysts caution that significantly increasing production could be a lengthy and expensive process.

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.

In January 2026, Nicolás Maduro, the authoritarian leader of Venezuela, was captured in a U.S. military operation. This action culminated a period of escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela. The Trump administration had increased pressure on Maduro, beginning in March 2020 with a Justice Department indictment on narco-terrorism charges. After a disputed election in July 2024, the Biden administration recognized opposition leader Edmundo González as Venezuela's legitimate leader in January 2025. In July, the Trump administration designated Cartel de los Soles, a Venezuela-based criminal group, as a terrorist organization and identified Maduro as its leader, further authorizing military force against Latin American drug cartels. These events led to the breakdown in U.S.-Venezuelan relations and the effort to remove Maduro from power.