Diplomatic Thaw: Trump and Petro's High-Stakes Summit

US President Trump is set to meet Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House. Despite prior tensions, the meeting aims to address drug trafficking strategies and boost bilateral trade, signaling a potential diplomatic thaw. Key discussions may include joint operations against Colombian rebel groups and economic cooperation.

US President Donald Trump is preparing to host Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House for a pivotal meeting that analysts believe could reshape future bilateral relations. The encounter follows a turbulent period marked by insults and sanctions between the two leaders.

Key topics on the agenda include strategies to curb drug trafficking and improve bilateral trade. Petro criticized Trump's drug eradication policy, advocating for alternative approaches and claiming successes in halting coca crop growth. Yet, cocaine production in Colombia remains at historic highs.

The meeting follows a period of tension involving Venezuela and contentious allegations. With repatriation flights newly resumed, analysts like Elizabeth Dickinson suggest that quieter, collaborative relations would benefit both nations moving forward.

(With inputs from agencies.)