In a significant escalation of tensions in Latin America, former US President Donald Trump has issued stark warnings to the governments of Mexico, Cuba, and Colombia. This comes in the immediate aftermath of a controversial US military operation in Venezuela that involved the seizure of President Nicolás Maduro and a large-scale strike.
Trump's Direct Warnings to Neighbouring Nations
The operation, which Trump stated was driven by suspicions of narco-terrorism and drug influence, has drawn sharp criticism and raised fears of broader regional conflict. Trump had previously suggested the US was willing to put "boots on the ground" in the region.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump turned his attention to Cuba, labelling it a "failing nation." He indicated that Cuba's situation would be a future topic of discussion for his administration. "I think Cuba is going to be something we'll end up talking about," Trump said. He expressed a dual desire to help the Cuban people both on the island and those living in exile in the United States.
His comments on Colombia were notably more aggressive. Trump directly criticised Colombian President Gustavo Petro, an ally of Maduro, by claiming the country hosts at least three major cocaine factories. "He's making cocaine. They're sending it into the United States. So he does have to watch his ass," Trump warned.
Allegations of Cartel Control in Mexico
Mexico was the third nation to receive a blunt assessment from the former President. Trump alleged that President Claudia Sheinbaum is not in control of her country, which he claims is dominated by powerful drug cartels. "They're running Mexico," he stated, recounting that he had repeatedly offered to "take out the cartels" but was met with refusal from Sheinbaum.
Trump characterised the Mexican leader as "very frightened of the cartels," suggesting this fear prevented her from accepting US military assistance against the criminal organisations.
Regional Condemnation and Political Backlash
The US military action in Venezuela and the subsequent warnings have triggered a wave of condemnation from across Latin America, threatening regional stability.
Mexico's ministry of foreign affairs issued a strong statement, reaffirming that Latin America and the Caribbean is "a zone of peace" built on mutual respect and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Colombia's Gustavo Petro emphasised his country's commitment to "peace, respect for international law, and the protection of life and human dignity." He has accused the US of violating United Nations principles, alleging one strike off Venezuela’s coast targeted civilians.
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel was scathing in his criticism, branding the attack on Venezuela as "cowardly, criminal and treacherous."
The operation has also faced significant domestic scrutiny in the United States. Several members of Congress criticised the action for being carried out without congressional approval. Many Democratic lawmakers have accused Trump of starting another unnecessary war, highlighting the deep political divisions over foreign military intervention.
This series of events marks a dramatic pivot in US-Latin American relations, centering on accusations of narco-terrorism and raising profound questions about sovereignty, regional peace, and the future of diplomatic engagement in the Western Hemisphere.
