Colombia's newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has declared a war on drug cartels, marking a sharp pivot in the nation's approach to organized crime.
The announcement coincides with a commitment from the United States to provide $1 billion in security assistance to the Colombian government.
The funding package, announced by the US State Department, is designed to bolster Colombia's capacity to combat illicit trafficking and stabilize the region.
This financial backing underscores the strategic importance Washington places on the new administration's hardline policy shift.
The development follows a contentious presidential election that saw significant public mobilization in Bogota.
The previous administration, led by Gustavo Petro, faced intense opposition, with demonstrators chanting for his removal.