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Trump Backs Espriella; Petro Decries Interference, Markets Rise

6/4/2026

33 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Abelardo de la Espriella, who led the first round with 43.7% and will face Iván Cepeda in a June 21 runoff.
President Gustavo Petro denounced the endorsement, saying foreign interference kills freedom.
Colombian markets rose after Abelardo de la Espriella’s first-round lead, reflecting optimism about his plans to roll back regulations and permit fracking.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 independent Álvaro Uribe won Colombia’s presidency, the first independent in over 150 years, marking a right-wing shift amid the regional “pink tide” of left-leaning leaders such as Brazil’s Lula and Venezuela’s Chávez. The candidate’s foreign backing now revives sharp concerns over foreign influence, prompting President Petro’s strong public protest.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Abelardo de la Espriella, who led the first round with 43.7% and will face Iván Cepeda in a June 21 runoff.
President Gustavo Petro denounced the endorsement, saying foreign interference kills freedom.
Colombian markets rose after Abelardo de la Espriella’s first-round lead, reflecting optimism about his plans to roll back regulations and permit fracking.

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