President Donald Trump hosted Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House on Tuesday in a rare face-to-face discussion aimed at addressing sharply strained relations between the two countries.

The meeting, held behind closed doors and lasting more than two hours, came after months of escalating public clashes that saw Trump levy harsh accusations against Petro and Bogotá’s policies and Washington impose sanctions on the Colombian leader and senior officials.

In opening remarks, Mr. Trump focused on the urgent need for cooperation on regional security and the fight against illegal narcotics trafficking—a long-standing priority for U.S. policy in Latin America.

Mr. Petro responded by emphasising Colombia’s commitment to combating the drug trade while advocating alternative approaches centred on demand reduction and rural development, signalling a willingness to engage constructively despite profound policy differences.

The encounter marked a notable shift from the acrimonious rhetoric of recent months, during which Mr. Trump publicly threatened punitive measures against Colombia and labelled Petro a ‘sick man’ for what he described as failures to curb cocaine flows into the United States.

Relations had deteriorated further following the Trump administration’s capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in early February, which Mr. Petro denounced as an act of aggression and a violation of international norms.

Colombia’s president, speaking after the meeting, characterised the talks as “very positive” and highlighted productive exchanges on key issues including efforts to curb narcotics production, joint regional security challenges, and economic cooperation.

He also acknowledged areas of continued divergence, noting that Colombia’s approach to drug control emphasises both law enforcement and social investment to reduce coca cultivation.

Despite lingering ideological differences, both leaders agreed to maintain direct dialogue, underscoring a shared interest in preventing further deterioration of bilateral ties.

The visit also follows a January phone call that helped defuse earlier hostilities and paved the way for this summit, reflecting sustained diplomatic efforts on both sides to stabilise a relationship that was once a cornerstone of U.S. policy in the region.

Analysts say the meeting could influence regional dynamics, as Colombia prepares for its May presidential election and both capitals seek practical cooperation on security and trade while managing divergent strategic priorities.