U.S. pledges $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia as new president vows to "defeat narco-terrorism"

August 8, 2026 / 10:39 AM EDT

/ CBS/AFP

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The United States pledged $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia after its new right-wing president took office. Abelardo de la Espriella, a millionaire lawyer with a taste for spectacle, took office Friday for his four-year term after a campaign focused on anger and fears about security."As a cornerstone of this renewed partnership, the United States, working with Congress, intends to announce $1 billion in assistance as part of a security package to support President (Abelardo) de la Espriella's administration in achieving our shared goals," the statement said.De la Espriella earned President Trump's endorsement despite never having run for office.

The newly elected president of Colombia, Abelardo de la Espriella, speaks during the military recognition ceremony as part of the presidential inauguration day at Batallón Pichincha in Cali, Colombia.