$1 Billion U.S. Security Aid Pledged to Colombia’s New Far-Right President

The U.S. State Department confirmed on Friday that the administration of former President Donald Trump plans to deliver $1 billion in security assistance to the government of Colombia’s newly sworn-in president, Álvaro de la Espriella, a far-right figure.

In a statement, the department described the aid as part of “a security package to support President de la Espriella’s administration in achieving our shared objectives.”

Swearing-in and electoral background

Álvaro de la Espriella was sworn in as Colombia’s new president on Friday, following his victory in the second round of elections held last June.

A lawyer by profession, de la Espriella, aged 48, had not previously held any elected office.

Policy priorities and political alignment

Upon assuming office, the new president pledged to confront armed groups, reduce the size of the government apparatus, and revitalize the oil and gas sector.

De la Espriella is a political ally of Donald Trump and, during his legal career, represented known far-right paramilitary groups.