Colombia President Orders Crackdown on Armed Groups After Rebel Leader Killed

De la Espriella, who assumed office recently, stated that the operation sends a clear message to "bandits." His campaign platform emphasized a relentless approach to "narco-terrorism," including potential air strikes. This contrasts sharply with the "total peace" policy pursued by former President Gustavo Petro.

Despite the new president's firm stance, violence has persisted. Shortly after de la Espriella's inauguration, two explosive devices detonated in separate incidents, injuring two security guards and killing a police officer via drone explosives. In a separate operation, soldiers in Antioquia province killed two alleged members of the Gulf Clan and detained four others.

The United States has pledged support for the new administration's security initiatives, with the State Department announcing plans to provide $1 billion in security assistance to Colombia and welcoming the country into the "Shield of the Americas" alliance.