US pledges $1B security aid to Colombia

On August 7, 2026, the United States State Department announced its intention to provide $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia, coinciding with the inauguration of right-wing President Abelardo de la Espriella. The package, subject to Congressional approval, aims to support De La Espriella's administration in combating drug trafficking and armed groups. The announcement also welcomed Colombia into the 'Shield of the Americas,' a Trump-created military alliance. De La Espriella, who won a narrow runoff election, has pledged a hardline crackdown on 'narco-terrorists,' including military action and the use of aerial herbicides to eradicate coca crops. His inauguration in Cali was attended by US acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and other right-wing leaders. The move marks a sharp shift from the frosty relations under predecessor Gustavo Petro, who has disputed the election results and called for protests. The aid package signals deepening US involvement in Latin America under President Donald Trump, who has endorsed De La Espriella and pursued aggressive anti-drug operations in the region.