US pledges $1bn security aid to Colombia as new president vows drug crackdown

The United States plans to offer $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia, signaling a renewed partnership with the nation's new rightwing president, Abelardo De La Espriella. The announcement came from the US State Department shortly after De La Espriella's inauguration, where he pledged a vigorous fight against drug trafficking and promised austerity measures to bolster the economy.

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I have come to close a long chapter of national resignation and, together with the people, embark on the most profound transformation of our destiny.

De La Espriella, 48, secured victory in June's runoff election on promises to crack down on armed groups, reduce the size of the state, and revitalize the oil and gas sector. "I have come to close a long chapter of national resignation and, together with the people, embark on the most profound transformation of our destiny," he stated at his inauguration. He also sent a strong message to criminal gangs and narco-terrorist groups: "submit to the rule of law or face the determined response of the Colombian state and its security forces." The new president indicated that peace talks with armed groups had been "completely exhausted."

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I send a firm message to the Colombian people: the time has come to restore order, authority and freedom.

The US security package is intended to support President De La Espriella's administration in achieving shared goals. His election reflects a broader rightward political trend across Latin America, influenced by weak economies and rising crime rates, which have empowered hard-right candidates promising crackdowns. De La Espriella aims to "definitively eradicate the scourge of illicit crops" using aerial herbicides that are safe for humans and the environment. He also announced Colombia's intention to join the Shield of America program, founded by former US President Donald Trump.

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Members of criminal gangs and narco-terrorist groups have two choices: submit to the rule of law or face the determined response of the Colombian state and its security forces.

While De La Espriella may enact some policies by decree, analysts suggest many proposals will require congressional approval and could be significantly altered in negotiations. The president's agenda includes strengthening order, authority, and freedom in Colombia. He previously met with leaders from Spain, Argentina, Ecuador, Chile, Paraguay, and Panama, as well as FIFA President Gianni Infantino, during his inauguration events.

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As a cornerstone of this renewed partnership, the United States, working with Congress, intends to announce $1 billion in assistance as part of a security package to support President de la Espriella’s Administration in achieving our shared goals.