Bogot¡: Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced plans to pursue legal action in the United States following remarks made by former US President Donald Trump, who labeled him 'a thug and a bad man.' Petro made this declaration on Wednesday, emphasizing his intention to defend himself against what he described as slanderous accusations linking Colombia to drug production.

According to Anadolu Agency, Petro communicated his stance via the US social media platform X, where he stated his intent to engage American lawyers to address the accusations within the US judicial system. Although Petro did not directly mention Trump in his post, he addressed recent incidents involving attacks on boats alleged to be involved in drug trafficking in the Caribbean, reiterating his commitment to combat such illegal activities.

Petro expressed his willingness to collaborate with the United States in the fight against drug trafficking, affirming that American society would have Colombia's support. However, he also criticized what he perceived as a shift in US strategy that undermines the sovereignty of Latin American and Caribbean countries.

Petro further accused Trump of attempting to influence Colombia's upcoming elections by undermining an effective anti-drug trafficking strategy. He claimed that Trump's remarks were aimed at bolstering the extreme right, which he alleges is linked to drug trafficking yet complies with US invasions.

In prior comments, Trump had threatened serious repercussions against Colombia, accusing the nation of producing illegal drugs that enter the US, primarily through Mexico. He warned Petro to 'watch it,' suggesting potential severe actions against Colombia.