Sources confirm that former President Donald Trump is angling for improved relations with Colombia, signalling a potential shift in US foreign policy towards Latin America. The move comes as the UK maintains its robust diplomatic presence across the region, underscoring a divergence in transatlantic approaches.
Uncovered documents from Trump's inner circle reveal a concerted effort to reset ties with Bogotá, focusing on trade and security cooperation. This follows years of strained relations under the Biden administration, which has prioritised human rights and environmental concerns in its dealings with Colombian President Gustavo Petro's leftist government.
“Trump sees Colombia as a key ally in the fight against drug trafficking and a gateway to broader Latin American markets,” a source close to the former president said. The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, added that Trump’s team has already held preliminary talks with Colombian officials, though no formal agreements have been reached.
The UK, meanwhile, has been quietly strengthening its own links. British embassies in Bogotá, Lima, and Santiago have ramped up trade missions and cultural exchanges. Whitehall sources confirm that the Foreign Office views Latin America as a growth area, particularly in fintech and renewable energy.
“Our strategy is long-term and grounded in mutual respect,” a UK diplomat said. “We’re not competing with the US. We’re building partnerships that withstand political changes.”
The timing of Trump’s overture is notable. It comes as Petro faces domestic challenges, including low approval ratings and a stalled peace process with rebel groups. Critics argue that Trump’s transactional approach could undermine efforts to address root causes of instability.
“Trump’s focus on ‘deals’ ignores the complex realities of Colombian society,” said Maria Santos, a political analyst at the University of Oxford. “The UK’s steadier hand offers a counterbalance, but it remains to be seen if that’s enough to influence US policy.”
Neither Trump’s office nor the Colombian embassy responded to requests for comment. The UK Foreign Office declined to elaborate on specific initiatives, stating only that it “remains committed to deepening ties across Latin America.”
For now, the region watches as two very different approaches unfold. One is a political lightning rod seeking quick wins. The other is a quiet bureaucrat playing the long game. The outcome could reshape alliances for years to come.
