Colombia has recalled its ambassador to the United States, Daniel Garcia Pena, for consultations as tensions between the two nations escalate over drug policy and aid disputes. The move follows a series of heated exchanges between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and US President Donald Trump, who recently threatened punitive tariffs and an end to US aid to Colombia. Trump accused Petro of being an ‘illegal drug leader’ and vowed to ‘close up’ drug cultivation in Colombia if Petro fails to act. Colombia’s Interior Minister Armando Benedetti interpreted Trump’s remarks as a ‘threat of invasion or military action.’ The rift deepened after the US deployed warships off the South American coast in August, targeting drug trafficking operations. At least 27 people have been killed in these operations, with recent strikes allegedly targeting Colombian armed groups. Petro has accused Trump of violating Colombia’s sovereignty and committing murder. The US has historically been Colombia’s largest aid provider, with $740 million allocated in 2023, half of which was earmarked for anti-drug efforts. However, relations have soured, with the US decertifying Colombia as an ally in the drug war and revoking Petro’s US visa. Petro’s administration has shifted focus from forced eradication to addressing the social issues driving drug trafficking, leading to a 70% increase in coca cultivation, according to UN estimates.