US Hands Colombia $1bn on New Right-Wing President's First Day
The US has pledged $1bn to Colombia hours after the country's new right-wing president, Abelardo de la Espriella, was sworn in. De la Espriella, an admirer of Donald Trump, promised an "all-out war" on drug cartels in his maiden speech.
US Security Package for Colombia
The US state department said the "security package" would help de la Espriella achieve "our shared goals", which include fighting organised crime and illegal immigration. Trump has repeatedly criticised Colombia's left-wing predecessor, Gustavo Petro, over his approach to these issues.
Colombia's Right-Wing Shift
De la Espriella's inauguration is the latest in a trend of Latin American nations shifting rightwards, driven by economic hardship and concerns about gang violence. Trump has taken a greater interest in the region, courting politically aligned leaders and spurning those with whom he disagrees.
De la Espriella's Plans
In his first official speech, de la Espriella pledged to crush armed insurgents, rebuild Colombia, and defend democracy "by reason or by force". He promised to abandon his predecessor's "total peace" approach to armed gangs and instead adopt a more forceful strategy.
US Support for de la Espriella
De la Espriella has pledged to join the "Shield of the Americas" security partnership founded by Trump. The US state department welcomed the move, saying de la Espriella's "pro-growth agenda" had created an opportunity to "increase trade and deepen economic ties between our countries".
Regional Implications
De la Espriella's ascension, along with that of Keiko Fujimori in Peru, means that Brazil's Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva now has fewer political allies in the region as the number of left-wing leaders dwindles. However, de la Espriella will face Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of jailed former President Jair Bolsonaro, in October.
A New Era for Colombia
De la Espriella's promise of a strong military alliance with the US and Israel marks a stark contrast to his predecessor's policies. The hardliner has also promised to lock up the kinds of criminals he previously represented as a defence lawyer.
The $1bn pledge from the US is a significant development in de la Espriella's presidency, and it remains to be seen how his policies will impact the country and the region. One thing is certain, however: Colombia is entering a new era, one that is likely to be marked by a more forceful approach to security and a closer relationship with the US.
Source: Joy Online
