US pledges $1bn support to Colombia as new president sworn in, vows crackdown

The United States has pledged $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia as the nation's new right-wing president, Abelardo De La Espriella, was sworn into office on August 7, 2026. The aid package from the Trump administration aims to bolster Colombia's efforts in combating organized crime and drug trafficking. De La Espriella, who won the runoff election in June, vowed a vigorous crackdown on armed groups and illicit drug cultivation, particularly focusing on the eradication of coca plantations.

The inauguration ceremony, held in Cali instead of the traditional capital, Bogotá, saw President De La Espriella announce Colombia's intention to join the US-created "Shield of the Americas" alliance, a military initiative designed to counter drug trafficking. This commitment signals a significant strengthening of ties between Washington and Bogotá, following a period of strained relations with the previous leftist administration of Gustavo Petro, who did not recognize De La Espriella's victory and was notably absent from the inauguration.

Beyond security, President De La Espriella has also pledged to implement austerity measures to restore economic confidence and promote growth. The US State Department emphasized that the $1 billion assistance package, which requires congressional cooperation, is a cornerstone of a renewed partnership to achieve shared goals for security and prosperity in the hemisphere.