Story perspectives

Trump Backs De La Espriella; Democrats Demand Probe

6/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Abelardo De La Espriella.
Eleven Democratic members of Congress urged a probe of Abelardo De La Espriella’s alleged United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia ties, accusing him of representing and recruiting for the group.
Senator Iván Cepeda, whose father was killed by paramilitaries, calls for continuation of President Gustavo Petro’s ‘total peace’ strategy as Colombia prepares to vote Sunday, with the president taking office on 7 August.

History

Historical Context

The 52-year Colombian conflict, which began in 1964, culminated in the Havana peace accord signed by President Juan Manuel Santos and the FARC on 23 June 2016. After a rejected referendum, Congress approved a revised deal in November 2016 and the UN later collected over 8,000 guns. Today, President Gustavo Petro’s total-peace plan faces criticism over alleged paramilitary links.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Abelardo De La Espriella.
Eleven Democratic members of Congress urged a probe of Abelardo De La Espriella’s alleged United Self-Defence Forces of Colombia ties, accusing him of representing and recruiting for the group.
Senator Iván Cepeda, whose father was killed by paramilitaries, calls for continuation of President Gustavo Petro’s ‘total peace’ strategy as Colombia prepares to vote Sunday, with the president taking office on 7 August.

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