Trump Warns Colombia, Says Cuba ‘Ready to Fall’ as Latin America Tensions Rise

In a sharp rise in tensions between the United States and Latin America, President Donald Trump on Sunday issued new warnings against Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro and said Cuba “looks ready to fall,” only days after a secret U.S. operation captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump’s remarks suggested the U.S. could expand its pressure across the region.

Trump called Colombia “very sick,” accusing Petro’s government of allowing drug production and trafficking into the United States. When asked if the U.S. might carry out an operation in Colombia similar to the one in Venezuela, Trump replied, “Sounds good to me.” The comment quickly drew criticism from Colombian officials.

President Petro responded on social media, saying Trump was “very misinformed about Colombia.” He urged Latin American countries to stand together against what he described as U.S. misinformation and interference. Petro warned that Washington’s actions could set a dangerous example that threatens national sovereignty across the region.

Trump’s remarks come as criticism continues over the U.S. raid in Caracas that led to Maduro’s arrest on drug trafficking charges. While Trump defended the operation as a law-enforcement action, many countries, including Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Spain, condemned it as a serious violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty and international norms. (Al Jazeera)

On Cuba, Trump used softer language but increased political pressure, saying the country “looks like it’s ready to fall” because it has lost oil support from Venezuela. He suggested Cuba could collapse without any direct U.S. military action. Analysts say these comments likely appeal to domestic audiences, especially Cuban-American voters.
Business Standard

Trump also warned Venezuela’s interim leaders that the U.S. would take further action if they “don’t behave,” claiming Washington was now effectively “in charge” despite political changes in Caracas. He also hinted that Mexico could face consequences if it fails to stop drug flows into the United States. (Dawn)

Analysts say it remains unclear whether Trump plans to act on these threats or is using strong language to pressure regional governments. Critics, however, warn that this approach could increase instability across Latin America.

Stay updated with the latest news here.