Colombia's President Gustavo Petro has told the BBC that he believes there is now a 'real threat' of US military action against Colombia. Petro stated that the US perceives other nations as part of a US 'empire'. His comments come following statements made by former President Donald Trump, who suggested that a military operation in Colombia 'sounds good'. Petro warned that the US risks transitioning from a global dominance to isolation. Furthermore, he accused US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents of operating with excessive force. The strained interactions between the two countries have deepened, especially after Trump commented on military actions following recent US operations in Venezuela. Petro and Trump engaged in a phone conversation where they discussed issues including drug trafficking and tensions in Latin America; however, Petro's remarks following the call suggested that relations have not significantly improved. The Colombian president recalled historical issues of US intervention in Latin America, underscoring the potential consequences of military threats and emphasizing Colombia's need for dialogue. As tensions rise and demonstrations erupt in Colombia in response to Trump's comments, Petro reiterated the need for peaceful interactions and respect for sovereignty.