US Southern Command Chief to Forge United Front with Colombia Against Drug Trafficking

The United States is bolstering its security partnership with Colombia, with U.S. Southern Command chief Francis Donovan vowing to forge a unified front against drug trafficking. Donovan concluded a three-day visit to the South American nation, emphasizing enhanced cooperation following a recent period of strained relations under the previous administration.

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The dedication of the Colombian forces with whom we were this week is unparalleled. By forging a unified front, we will dismantle narcoterrorist operations, dismantle their leadership, and eliminate their violent networks that threaten our shared security and sovereignty.

During his visit, Donovan met with Colombian Defense Minister Jorge Eduardo Mora in Tumaco, a border zone with Ecuador, to strengthen bilateral efforts against drug trafficking and organized crime in the Pacific region. He also visited the Tolemaida Military Fort, Colombia's largest, to observe the capabilities of the Army Aviation. "Strengthening and recovering these capabilities is a priority to guarantee a Force with greater mobility, reach, and response," stated General Erik Rodríguez, commander of the Colombian Military Forces.

Donovan's trip underscores a renewed commitment to security cooperation between Washington and Bogotá. This comes as Colombia recently joined the Americas Coalition Against Cartels (A3C), a U.S.-led initiative to coordinate regional efforts against drug trafficking and transnational organized crime. Donovan highlighted the "unprecedented speed and determination" of the A3C and the Western Hemisphere Task Force.

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Strengthening and recovering these capabilities is a priority to guarantee a Force with greater mobility, reach, and response. We continue to work monolithically for the security of Colombia.

The visit also marks a significant shift in security relations, aiming to rebuild trust and collaboration after a period of divergence during former President Gustavo Petro's term. The renewed focus on combating illicit activities and strengthening regional security networks signals a strategic alignment between the two nations.

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The Americas Coalition Against Cartels and the Western Hemisphere Task Force are advancing with unprecedented speed and determination.