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Monday, February 16, 2026

Trump calls Colombia’s Petro ‘terrific’ after White House meeting while downplaying past insults

WASHINGTON (AP) – In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro met for a friendly and productive two-hour meeting on Tuesday. This meeting marks a significant shift from just weeks ago when Trump accused Petro of being involved in the drug trade and even threatened military action against Colombia. However, after their meeting, Trump sought to downplay his previous criticisms and instead focus on the positive relationship between the two countries.

The meeting between the two leaders was held at the White House and was described as cordial and productive by both parties. Trump welcomed Petro with a warm handshake and a smile, a stark contrast to his previous hostile rhetoric towards the Colombian president. The two leaders discussed a range of issues, including trade, security, and the ongoing political and economic crisis in Venezuela.

The change in tone from Trump towards Petro is a significant development in the relationship between the United States and Colombia. Just a few weeks ago, Trump had accused Colombia of not doing enough to combat the drug trade and even threatened to cut off aid to the country. However, the meeting between the two leaders shows a willingness to move past these tensions and work towards a stronger partnership.

During the meeting, Trump praised Colombia for its efforts in fighting drug trafficking and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Colombian people in this fight. He also expressed his support for Colombia’s efforts to address the crisis in Venezuela, which has caused a massive influx of refugees into Colombia. Trump reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to standing with Colombia in addressing these challenges.

Petro, on the other hand, thanked Trump for his support and emphasized the importance of the relationship between the two countries. He also highlighted the economic and social progress that Colombia has made in recent years and expressed his desire to continue working closely with the United States to further strengthen their partnership.

The meeting between Trump and Petro is a significant step towards improving the relationship between the two countries. It shows a willingness on both sides to put aside past differences and work towards a common goal. This is especially important as the United States and Colombia face numerous challenges in the region, including the ongoing crisis in Venezuela and the threat of drug trafficking.

The positive outcome of this meeting is a testament to the strong and enduring friendship between the United States and Colombia. It also sends a message to the rest of the world that despite differences, countries can come together and find common ground for the greater good.

In the past, Trump’s remarks about Colombia have caused concern and unease among the Colombian people. However, his change in tone towards Petro and Colombia is a welcome development that will surely be met with relief and optimism. This meeting has the potential to strengthen the relationship between the two countries and pave the way for future cooperation and collaboration.

As the meeting between Trump and Petro came to an end, both leaders expressed their commitment to continue working together towards a brighter future for both countries. This meeting marks a new chapter in the relationship between the United States and Colombia, one that is based on mutual respect and cooperation.

In conclusion, the meeting between President Trump and President Petro was a significant and positive step towards strengthening the relationship between the United States and Colombia. It shows that despite past differences, countries can come together and work towards a common goal. This meeting sets a positive tone for future interactions between the two countries and sends a message of unity and cooperation to the rest of the world.

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