Hegseth says Colombia’s new president has requested US collaboration in anti-drug efforts
PANAMA CITY (AP) — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated on Wednesday that the freshly elected administration of Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has sought American assistance in collaborative military operations within Colombia aimed at combating "narco-terrorism." During a gathering of the Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition in Panama, Hegseth claimed that Colombia would also become a participant in the "Shield of the Americas" program, elevating its status to the 19th member.
The initiative originated from a March summit attended by U.S. President Donald Trump and Latin American nations, aimed at uniting in the fight against drug cartels. It is noteworthy that Colombia's previous president, Gustavo Petro, was not invited to that meeting. Hegseth stated that the newly inaugurated president, referred to by some as "President El Tigre," had already requested the Department of War to join Colombia in its efforts against narco-terrorism, authorizing joint military operations to dismantle terrorists and terror networks.
The government of de la Espriella, who assumed office last week and is colloquially known as "The Tiger" or "El Tigre," has not yet issued a response to the announcement in Panama. However, it is worth mentioning that the conservative leader has previously expressed his willingness to join the U.S. initiative. Hegseth further advised the Latin American countries in attendance not to acknowledge the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The U.S. under the Trump administration has carried out military strikes against suspected drug traffickers in the region, which has raised questions regarding their legality. Hegseth contended that such actions "are entirely legal under international humanitarian law." It remains uncertain from Hegseth's statements what measures, if any, the international court has undertaken to impede U.S. operations in the region.
It is unclear from Hegseth's comments what specific measures, if any, the international court has taken to hinder U.S. activities in the region.
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