In a surprising turn of events, Colombia’s leftist president, Gustavo Petro, has issued a formal apology to former President Trump, just days after he made explosive claims that the U.S. was orchestrating a “coup” against his government.
This conciliatory letter, which has made its way into Colombian media, seems to be an attempt to mend the frayed diplomatic ties between Colombia and the United States, which have reached an all-time low during Petro’s tenure.
“My concern has always been to warn about destabilizing dynamics affecting our region, often driven by diverse actors with conflicting interests,” Petro wrote, attempting to clarify his earlier comments.
“In this context, I recognize that some of my words may have been perceived as unnecessarily harsh.”
He added, “In the interest of dialogue, I want to say that my intention is not to close doors, but to open paths for honest and respectful conversation between our countries.”
Aquí la carta de retractación de Gustavo Petro a Donald Trump por haber acusado, sin fundamento a EEUU por estar tras un supuesto golpe en su contra. A pesar de este gesto, Washington retiró a su representante diplomático en el país.
El tema seguirá. Detalles en… pic.twitter.com/WwqXNRAs4C
— Luis Carlos Vélez (@lcvelez) July 7, 2025
Petro, a former member of the Marxist guerrilla group M-19, has found himself at odds with the U.S. administration, leading to a notable deterioration in relations. His comments accusing the U.S. of plotting a coup were made during a speech in Cali last month, where he suggested that the U.S. aimed to “fill Colombia with criminal gangs.”
This rhetoric did not go unnoticed; in response, Secretary of State Marco Rubio promptly recalled the charge d’affaires ad interim from Bogotá, citing Petro’s remarks as “baseless and reprehensible.”
Recalled our Chargé d’Affaires ad interim from Bogotá for urgent consultations following baseless and reprehensible statements from senior Colombian government officials. Our nation is committed to the U.S.-Colombia bilateral relationship and the Colombian people. We will remain…
— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) July 3, 2025
The diplomatic spat began earlier this year when Petro attempted to halt deportation flights for undocumented immigrants back to Colombia. However, he quickly reversed course after Trump threatened to impose a hefty 25 percent tariff and revoke visas for Colombian officials, among other sanctions.
BREAKING: Colombia’s President just issued a response to President Trump, folding faster than a camping tent.
“The Colombian Government, under the leadership of President Gustavo Petro, has arranged for the presidential plane to facilitate the dignified return of the compatriots… pic.twitter.com/ek5oSIHDqX
— George (@BehizyTweets) January 26, 2025
