Trump and Petro met at the White House after a period of mutual accusations

US President Donald Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro met in person for the first time on Tuesday at the White House, following months of sharp rhetoric and open disputes. The meeting took place behind closed doors and lasted approximately two hours, with no specific outcome announced as yet.

According to available information, the talks focused mainly on the fight against drugs, which is a key but sensitive issue for both sides.

Relations between Washington and Bogota have been tense recently. Trump has repeatedly accused Petro of being unable to tackle drug trafficking, while the Colombian president has criticized US intervention in the region and its consequences.

A recent phone call between the two leaders brought a slight improvement in tone, paving the way for a face-to-face meeting.

Analysts warn that if tensions are not eased in the long term, it could affect regional security and cooperation in the fight against drugs.

Colombia is one of the US's most important allies in Latin America.

(reuters, pir)