President Petro’s clash with Trump over Venezuela backs Colombia into a corner
The Associated Press1 day
Trump to Host Colombia's Petro at White House
Did President Trump back down from threats after Petro stood firm, or did Petro cave to Trump's pressure campaign?
Above: Colombia's President Gustavo Petro speaks during a rally in Bogotá on Jan. 7. Image credit: Sebastian Barros/Long Visual Press/Universal Images Group/Getty Images
The Spin
Anti-Trump narrative
Trump backed down from his reckless invasion threats after Petro stood firm and refused to be intimidated. Days after threatening military action and hurling insults at Colombia's president, Trump suddenly changed his tune and praised Petro's call. The about-face proves that standing up to bullies works and diplomacy is vital.
Pro-Trump narrative
Petro caved in as President Trump's deft pressure campaign forced him to the negotiating table. What was supposed to be a defiant anti-American rally turned into an embarrassing display as Petro abandoned his prepared speech to announce he'd spent an hour on the phone with Trump. Supporters waving "Yankee Go Home" signs watched in stunned silence as their leader pivoted from resistance to rapprochement.
Public Figures
Establishment split
CRITICAL
PRO
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0