USA considers military strikes against drug cartels in Colombia

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated the possibility of joint military operations targeting armed groups in Colombia. Speaking at a conference in Panama, Hegseth stated that Colombia has authorized "joint military operations to destroy terrorists and terrorist networks."

He specifically mentioned groups designated as terrorist organizations by the U.S., such as the National Liberation Army (ELN), as legitimate targets. This announcement follows Colombia's new conservative government under President Abelardo De La Espriella joining the U.S.-led coalition against drug cartels.

Hegseth also invoked a modern interpretation of the 19th-century Monroe Doctrine, referring to it as the "Donroe Doctrine" in a nod to President Donald Trump. Additionally, he criticized the International Criminal Court and urged allies to withdraw from the organization.

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joint military operations to destroy terrorists and terrorist networks