Key points of contention include coca eradication, migration and Venezuela. The tendency of both leaders to communicate via social media raises the risk of provocative remarks further fuelling antagonism. Bilateral institutions, military relations and the prospect of a right-wing government taking power after Colombia’s 2026 elections may help to prevent a complete breakdown in relations.
Any renegotiation of the 2012 US-Colombia Free Trade Agreement is unlikely and would have to be approved by each country’s legislature.
Colombia will be a major thoroughfare for US-bound migration for the foreseeable future, regardless of Trump’s hardline policies.
Washington will aim to keep Colombia aligned with the United States, but pressure from Trump could see Petro seek closer ties with China.
