US $1 Billion Security Aid to Colombia!
US to provide $1 billion security aid to government of Colombia’s new rightwing president
Washington, Aug 7 (EFE).-
The US Department of State announced on Friday that it plans to allocate $1 billion to Colombia as part of a security assistance package to support the new government of far-right President Abelardo de la Espriella.
The administration of US President Donald Trump indicated that, in coordination with Congress, it intends to announce this assistance as one of the cornerstones of the “renewed partnership” between the two countries.
The announcement came on the occasion of De la Espriella’s inauguration, to which the US sent a delegation led by acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
The package includes strengthening Colombian security forces in the fight against transnational criminal and foreign terrorist organizations, through deploying US technology, building interoperability, and executing coordinated operations with US forces.
It also includes significantly expanding the eradication of coca crops and cocaine interdiction operations, as well as pursuing the finances of criminal organizations.
Washington also offered to support Bogotá’s efforts to regain state control of territories dominated by armed groups, protect children from forced recruitment, and curb irregular immigration flows through increased border security coordination.
The State Department framed these measures within a new chapter of the bilateral relationship, which also includes economic cooperation in energy, critical minerals, infrastructure, technology, and civil nuclear energy.
Trump maintained a tense relationship with President Gustavo Petro during a period marked by disagreements on migration and security matters.
The arrival of De la Espriella, who has advocated a far-right, hardline policy against armed groups and drug trafficking, now opens a new phase in the links between Bogotá and Washington.
The presidential inauguration ceremony was attended by most Latin American presidents who are part of the region’s right-wing government alliance that has strengthened ties with the Trump administration, mainly on security and immigration matters. EFE
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