BOGOTÁ — Colombia’s Foreign Minister Rosa Villavicencio has urged the Colombian armed forces to prepare to defend the nation’s territory and sovereignty in the event of a possible military invasion by the United States. Her comments came during a press conference responding to recent threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump that hinted at possible military action against Colombia, similar to the U.S. operation in Venezuela.
Trump’s remarks over the weekend suggested that Colombia, which he described as “very sick,” could face military intervention akin to the one carried out in neighboring Venezuela, where U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro earlier this month.
“If such aggression were to occur, the military must defend the national territory and the sovereignty of the country,” Villavicencio said, underscoring that under international law, sovereign states retain the right to legitimate self-defense.
Her statement reflects escalating diplomatic tensions between Bogotá and Washington, following Trump’s hardline comments and actions in the region. In response to the Venezuela operation and his rhetoric toward Colombia, many Colombians have expressed alarm and concern over the possibility of U.S. military involvement in Latin America.
Colombia’s government continues to emphasize its commitment to upholding national sovereignty while maintaining dialogue with international partners. However, Villavicencio’s remarks signal that military preparedness remains a priority should external threats materialize.
The situation remains fluid, with both diplomatic talks and public reactions evolving as regional tensions persist.