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Thursday, Mar 12, 2026
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Trump and Colombia’s Petro Set for White House Meeting Amid Diplomatic Thaw
After a period of heightened tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump invites Colombian President Gustavo Petro to Washington in early February
President Donald Trump has confirmed that Colombian President Gustavo Petro will visit the White House in early February, signalling a notable easing of strained relations between the United States and Colombia.
The invitation follows the first direct telephone conversation between the two leaders, during which they discussed bilateral issues including drug trafficking and broader regional cooperation.
Trump described the call as “great” and said he appreciated Petro’s tone, adding that he looked forward to hosting his counterpart in Washington.
The pending visit represents a marked diplomatic shift after months of fraught exchanges.
In recent weeks, Trump had publicly criticised Petro and even suggested that U.S. military action against Colombia had merit.
Relations deteriorated further after the United States military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, prompting sharp responses from Petro and concern in Bogotá about regional stability.
During the phone call, Trump and Petro agreed to restart dialogue at the highest levels.
Coordination for the February meeting is reportedly underway between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Colombia’s foreign minister.
Petro reiterated his intention to attend the White House meeting despite previous tensions, stating that direct communication was essential to address disagreements and strengthen cooperation.
The planned visit also comes as Colombia prepares for presidential elections scheduled for late May, with Petro barred from seeking immediate re-election under the constitution.
Analysts view the White House engagement as an opportunity to reinforce the longstanding U.S.-Colombia relationship, particularly in combating drug trafficking, addressing regional security challenges and exploring ways to foster economic and diplomatic collaboration.
Petro’s trip to Washington underscores a mutual interest in stabilising relations and pursuing constructive engagement ahead of broader geopolitical discussions between the two nations.
The invitation follows the first direct telephone conversation between the two leaders, during which they discussed bilateral issues including drug trafficking and broader regional cooperation.
Trump described the call as “great” and said he appreciated Petro’s tone, adding that he looked forward to hosting his counterpart in Washington.
The pending visit represents a marked diplomatic shift after months of fraught exchanges.
In recent weeks, Trump had publicly criticised Petro and even suggested that U.S. military action against Colombia had merit.
Relations deteriorated further after the United States military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, prompting sharp responses from Petro and concern in Bogotá about regional stability.
During the phone call, Trump and Petro agreed to restart dialogue at the highest levels.
Coordination for the February meeting is reportedly underway between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Colombia’s foreign minister.
Petro reiterated his intention to attend the White House meeting despite previous tensions, stating that direct communication was essential to address disagreements and strengthen cooperation.
The planned visit also comes as Colombia prepares for presidential elections scheduled for late May, with Petro barred from seeking immediate re-election under the constitution.
Analysts view the White House engagement as an opportunity to reinforce the longstanding U.S.-Colombia relationship, particularly in combating drug trafficking, addressing regional security challenges and exploring ways to foster economic and diplomatic collaboration.
Petro’s trip to Washington underscores a mutual interest in stabilising relations and pursuing constructive engagement ahead of broader geopolitical discussions between the two nations.
