US promises $1bn in security aid to Colombia as new rightwing president pledges drugs crackdown
The Guardian · 2026-08-08
Abelardo de la Espriella, a Trump ally and Colombia’s new rightwing president, has pledged a "profound transformation" for the country as the US announces $1 billion in security aid. Sworn in on Friday at the Pichincha Battalion military base in Cali, De La Espriella declared his intent to "restore order, authority and freedom" and close a "long chapter of national resignation." The US State Department confirmed the security assistance package.
De La Espriella's inauguration was attended by several international dignitaries, including the King of Spain and presidents from Argentina, Ecuador, Chile, Paraguay, and Panama. Gianni Infantino, head of Fifa, also attended, while the US delegation was led by acting attorney general Todd Blanche. While the president can enact some policies via decree, analysts anticipate that many of his proposals will require congressional backing and could face dilution through negotiation. In opposition, a march was led by Cepeda in Barranquilla on Friday, calling for the defense of democracy and peaceful civil disobedience.
*The full article also explores the challenges De La Espriella faces in a divided congress and the potential for civil unrest.*