United States President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella ahead of a closely watched runoff election later this month.
Trump threw his support behind the right-wing lawyer on Tuesday, describing the upcoming vote as critical to both Colombia’s future and its relationship with the United States.
“The results of this election are very important to the future of Colombia and its relationship with the United States,” Trump said in a social media post.
De la Espriella will face off against left-wing senator Ivan Cepeda in the second-round presidential contest after neither candidate secured an outright majority in the first round.
The conservative candidate, who has never previously held elected office, emerged as the frontrunner in the initial vote, winning nearly 44 per cent of ballots cast. Cepeda followed closely behind with just under 41 per cent support.
De la Espriella has attracted significant attention during the campaign for his tough stance on crime and security issues. His proposals include stronger action against illegal armed groups and the construction of 10 mega-prisons to combat organised crime.
His law-and-order platform has prompted comparisons with Nayib Bukele, whose aggressive anti-gang policies have gained international attention.
Responding to Trump’s endorsement, de la Espriella welcomed the support and emphasised the importance of cooperation between Colombia and the United States in tackling crime and narcotics trafficking.
“The United States plays a crucial role in combating crime and narco-terrorism and in helping Colombia overcome decades of violence,” he said in a video shared on social media.
He added that he and Trump share common values centred on democracy, freedom and the rule of law.
The endorsement quickly sparked criticism from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who has maintained a tense relationship with Trump and voiced concerns about foreign involvement in Colombia’s political process.
“When one country interferes in another country’s decisions, freedom dies,” Petro wrote in a social media post following the endorsement.
The runoff election is expected to be one of the most closely contested presidential races in recent Colombian history, with voters deeply divided over the country’s future direction on issues ranging from security and economic policy to international relations.
Political analysts say Trump’s endorsement could energise conservative voters, while also providing additional ammunition for opponents who argue that Colombia’s elections should remain free from external influence.
With just weeks remaining before Colombians return to the polls, the battle between de la Espriella and Cepeda is expected to intensify as both candidates seek to win over undecided voters in a highly polarised political climate.
