US Pledges $1 Billion Security Assistance as Trump-Backed De la Espriella Takes Office in Colombia

The State Department announced it plans $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia hours after right-wing, Trump-endorsed president Abelardo De la Espriella was inaugurated in Cali on August 7, 2026, replacing Gustavo Petro. The nine-figure package — unveiled within hours of the swearing-in — signaled Washington's intent to quickly rebuild the bilateral relationship after years of feuding with Petro, whom Trump had accused of failing to curb drug trafficking and whom OFAC had sanctioned in 2025. De la Espriella vowed to 'defeat narco-terrorism' in partnership with Washington.