Trump Issues Stark Warning to Colombian Leader Following Maduro’s Capture
In a blunt exchange, US President Donald Trump cautioned Colombian President Gustavo Petro to “watch his a**” shortly after Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro was detained and transferred to a New York prison. The warning came amid the US-launched military initiative known as Operation Absolute Resolve in Venezuela.
Speaking to reporters, Trump remarked, “He’s making cocaine and they’re sending it into the United States, so he does have to watch his a**.” Although Trump did not directly name Petro—one of Maduro’s regional allies—the Colombian president condemned the US actions as an infringement on Latin American sovereignty, warning that they could trigger a severe humanitarian crisis.
Petro has consistently opposed Trump’s deployment of forces in the Caribbean aimed at intercepting suspected drug trafficking vessels. As part of broader anti-narcotics efforts, Trump has previously indicated he might target drug production facilities in Colombia, a statement Petro denounced as tantamount to an invasion threat.
Just hours after Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were removed from Caracas, Trump announced that the United States would temporarily administer Venezuela. “We’re going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition,” he stated, while noting preparedness for a larger follow-up military operation if necessary.
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Trump emphasized the importance of asserting US influence in the Western Hemisphere, saying the nation seeks stable neighbors, regional stability, and access to energy resources. He expressed optimism about Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez’s ability to guide the country forward, but questioned opposition figure Maria Corina Machado’s domestic backing, describing her as lacking sufficient respect within Venezuela despite acknowledging her personally.
Looking ahead, Trump outlined plans to dispatch major American oil companies to repair Venezuela’s deteriorated oil infrastructure, invest billions, and generate revenue for the nation. He reaffirmed that sanctions on Venezuelan oil remain in place, with US naval forces on standby and all military options available until American conditions are met.
In related comments, Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested potential scrutiny for Cuba’s government. Trump also addressed Mexico, asserting that cartels effectively control the country despite his positive view of President Claudia Sheinbaum, and reiterated offers to eliminate the cartels that she has declined.