U.S. pledges $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia as new president vows to "defeat narco-terrorism"
The United States has pledged $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia following the inauguration of President Abelardo de la Espriella. The new administration has vowed to take a hardline approach against narco-terrorism and armed insurgents, marking a shift from the previous government's policies.
Why it matters
This significant financial commitment signals a major shift in U.S.-Colombia relations and regional security strategy in Latin America.
The United States pledged $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia after its new right-wing president took office. Abelardo de la Espriella, a millionaire lawyer with a taste for spectacle, took office Friday for his four-year term after a campaign focused on anger and fears about security."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 (Abelardo) de la Espriella's administration in achieving our shared goals," the statement said.De la Espriella earned President Trump's endorsement despite never having run for office.De la Espriella now has grand plans to crush armed insurgents, cozy up to the U.S. and overhaul the system.
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