Bogota: A meeting held Monday night between Colombian President Gustavo Petro, U.S. Charge d’Affaires John McNamara, and Colombia’s recalled ambassador to the U.S., Daniel García-Peña, marked an initial attempt to address escalating tensions between the two nations. The Colombian Foreign Ministry described the meeting as a "long, frank, and constructive" dialogue aimed at restoring strained diplomatic relations.

The tensions intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to raise tariffs on Colombian goods and halt all financial aid to the country. These threats followed U.S. military strikes on vessels in the Caribbean, which Colombia claims were civilian boats, not drug traffickers. Trump also labeled President Petro an "illegal drug leader," a remark that Colombia condemned as offensive and a violation of its sovereignty.

During the meeting, McNamara emphasized that decisions regarding tariffs are solely within President Trump's authority, underscoring that such matters are not subject to negotiation with the Colombian government. In response, Colombia reiterated its commitment to anti-drug efforts, highlighting recent record drug seizures and the expansion of coca crop substitution programs. The Colombian Foreign Ministry also urged the U.S. to rely on accurate and updated data concerning coca cultivation and cocaine production, pointing out previous measurement errors acknowledged by the United Nations.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, the economic implications are significant. The United States is Colombia's largest trading partner, and any increase in tariffs could severely impact Colombia's economy. Additionally, the recall of Ambassador García-Peña and the suspension of U.S. aid operations in Colombia have further strained relations.

As both nations navigate this diplomatic impasse, the international community watches closely, given the potential repercussions for regional stability and bilateral cooperation on drug control and trade.