The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series Colombia Avoids War with the US || Peter Zeihan
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Jan 16, 2026 Tensions in Colombia peaked after Maduro's capture, igniting fears of conflict. A surprising call between Trump and President Petro helped ease the situation. The podcast explores the strategic importance of Colombia's geography and its pivotal role in U.S. interests, especially regarding cocaine interdiction. Peter discusses Colombia's security culture shaped by years of civil war and its economic ties to the U.S. The potential for Colombia as a low-cost manufacturing partner alongside Mexico is also highlighted, amidst their ongoing drug challenges.
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Unexpected Diplomatic Thaw
- Peter Zeihan highlights an unexpected one-hour conciliatory call between Trump and Gustavo Petro that ended with a White House invitation.
- This signals pragmatic US-Colombia relations can overcome personal animus for strategic gain.
Geography Gives Strategic Leverage
- Colombia's geography gives it strategic control between the Caribbean/Atlantic and the Pacific.
- That position makes Colombia naturally valuable to US regional strategy and naval access.
Cocaine Shapes Bilateral Ties
- Longstanding US-Colombia cooperation centers on combating cocaine production and smuggling.
- Shared interest in restricting cocaine networks has driven decades of close alignment.