US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru to enhance cooperation with allied governments. During his visit to Barranquilla on September 8, 2026, Rubio met with Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, discussing potential trade deals with Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador as part of the Trump administration's strategy to strengthen ties with right-wing allies in Latin America. Rubio stated, "We have a lot of common interest with them, both taking on regional transnational criminal terrorism and also economic engagements."
Rubio's trip includes meetings with Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa and Peru's President Keiko Fujimori. He emphasized the importance of solid trade agreements with these countries. The diplomatic visit coincides with efforts by the Trump administration to counter China's influence in the region, particularly following China's free-trade agreement with Peru in 2009, which has made China Peru's top trading partner.
The Trump administration's policy, informally referred to as the "Donroe Doctrine," aims to increase US control over the Western Hemisphere, with security being a primary focus. Since his re-election, Trump has authorized military actions in Venezuela and the Caribbean to combat drug trafficking.
President De la Espriella, who took office in August 2026, expressed a desire to strengthen Colombia's partnership with the US in hemispheric security. After meeting with Rubio, he indicated plans to seek US support for military operations, including radar and drone technology.
De la Espriella's administration has been characterized by a shift towards a militarized approach to crime, aligning with Trump’s priorities. He has invited regional leaders to join the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (ACCC), which emphasizes US military involvement in combating drugs and crime.
Leftist candidate Ivan Cepeda criticized Rubio's visit, calling it an "act of surrendering strategic aspects of our sovereignty" and expressing concern over recent mineral and energy deals. Cepeda also condemned De la Espriella’s decision to relax gun restrictions, suggesting it aligns with policies of the Trump administration. In response, De la Espriella defended his stance, citing Colombia's ongoing struggles with crime and the need for law-abiding citizens to be able to defend themselves.
Colombia has also requested the Trump administration to lower tariffs imposed on the country in July.