Colombia’s new president vows war on armed groups

Colombia’s new President Abelardo de la Espriella, a 48-year-old right-wing lawyer and businessman, has vowed tough action against armed groups after taking office. Known as “El Tigre” (The Tiger), he defeated outgoing left-wing President Gustavo Petro in June’s election.

Breaking with tradition, his inauguration was held in the violence-hit southwestern city of Cali instead of Bogotá, highlighting his zero-tolerance approach to armed groups and drug traffickers. He warned that his government would make no concessions to “narco-terrorism” and said the path of negotiations for peace had ended. De la Espriella has announced direct military operations against dissident FARC factions, the ELN and armed drug cartel Clan del Golfo. Economically, he plans to cut government spending by up to 40% and improve the investment climate, while also supporting responsible fracking and strengthening state energy company Ecopetrol.

He also plans to cut diplomatic ties with Cuba and Nicaragua while restoring closer relations with Israel. In addition, he has expressed interest in joining the US-backed “Shield of the Americas” alliance, as Washington has offered Colombia $1 billion in security assistance. His victory follows a broader right-wing resurgence in Latin America, including in Argentina, Chile and Peru, since Donald Trump returned to the White House. Although some left-wing supporters protested in Cali, Bogotá and Barranquilla on inauguration day, the ceremony was completed under heavy security.