US Pledges $1 Billion in Security Aid to Colombia as New President Vows Drug Crackdown

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The Trump administration announced $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia following the inauguration of rightwing president Abelardo De La Espriella. In his inaugural speech, De La Espriella pledged to intensify efforts against drug trafficking and implement austerity measures to restore economic confidence. The 48-year-old president, who won June's runoff election, has promised to crack down on armed groups, reduce the state by up to 40%, and revive the oil and gas sector.