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Trump Backs Espriella, Who Wins Colombia Election Amid Controversy

6/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Abelardo de la Espriella.
Abelardo de la Espriella won Colombia’s presidential election, defeating Iván Cepeda by roughly 250,000 votes.
De la Espriella has defended former paramilitary commanders and a major Ponzi-scheme organizer.
His suggestion to withdraw Colombia from the Organization of American States and the United Nations has prompted analysts to warn that the security strategy could spark protests and renewed violence.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump publicly endorsed Abelardo de la Espriella.
Abelardo de la Espriella won Colombia’s presidential election, defeating Iván Cepeda by roughly 250,000 votes.
De la Espriella has defended former paramilitary commanders and a major Ponzi-scheme organizer.
His suggestion to withdraw Colombia from the Organization of American States and the United Nations has prompted analysts to warn that the security strategy could spark protests and renewed violence.