Washington, D.C., January 11, 2026
The recent US military action in Venezuela and the subsequent arrest of ousted Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro have sharply divided global opinion over President Donald Trump’s foreign policy approach. As debate continues worldwide, attention has now shifted to a key diplomatic development: Colombian President Gustavo Petro is scheduled to meet President Trump at the White House.
The meeting comes at a time of heightened political and military tension across Latin America, raising questions about how effective the talks may be in easing regional instability.
Why the Meeting Matters
The significance of the Trump–Petro meeting has grown amid concerns over increasing military activity near Venezuela and fears of broader conflict in South America. Ahead of the talks, President Petro publicly underlined the importance of the meeting, calling it a potential opportunity to prevent wars worldwide.
Petro has expressed concern that recent developments—particularly US action in Venezuela—have escalated tensions across the region.
Petro: Dialogue Over Confrontation
Speaking to a US television network, President Petro emphasized that he views the White House meeting as a chance to pursue cooperation and peace rather than confrontation.
According to Petro, dialogue between Washington and Bogotá could play a constructive role not only in stabilizing Latin America but also in addressing global conflicts. He repeatedly stressed that diplomatic engagement remains the most effective path forward.
Concerns Over Military Escalation Near Venezuela
Petro highlighted growing anxiety over increased military presence near Venezuela, pointing to images showing helicopters and missile deployments in the region. He warned that any escalation could directly affect Colombia, which lacks a formal air defense system.
“If the conflict expands,” Petro cautioned, “Colombia could find itself in a highly vulnerable position.”
What Is the Objective of the Meeting?
When asked directly about the primary goal of his discussions with Trump, Petro responded clearly: to prevent war.
He warned that attacks or instability involving US or Colombian leadership could trigger internal conflict in Colombia and fuel anti-American sentiment, calling such an outcome “a reckless policy choice.”
Petro’s remarks come amid heightened security concerns following US military operations in Venezuela and the arrest of Nicolás Maduro, developments that have further strained regional stability.
Call for Regional Cooperation
President Petro reiterated that dialogue and cooperation—not conflict—are the only viable solutions. He confirmed that he has invited Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez to collaborate on joint efforts against drug trafficking groups operating along the Colombia–Venezuela border.
According to Petro, the two leaders have already spoken by phone and agreed in principle on coordinated action to counter cross-border criminal networks.
