According to the Saudi Gazette, United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday that Colombia has authorized joint military operations with the United States to target drug trafficking networks. The announcement was made during a gathering of the US-led Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition held in Panama City, marking a significant expansion of Washington's counternarcotics strategy in the region.
During the event, Secretary Hegseth confirmed that discussions had taken place regarding the potential for joint strikes against armed groups identified as terrorist organizations by the US government. Specifically, Hegseth noted that groups such as the National Liberation Army (ELN) and remnants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) would be considered legitimate targets for joint operations. He emphasized that the move is intended to foster more active and operationally focused participation among regional partners.
The inclusion of Colombia in this expanded military-led coalition signals a shift toward more aggressive, direct intervention in the fight against cartels and associated militant groups. While the US has long provided intelligence and logistical support to Colombian forces, the prospect of joint strikes represents a notable escalation in the operational role of US personnel. The Colombian government has yet to release a detailed breakdown of the operational parameters, but the announcement suggests a deepening of the security partnership between the two nations.
The story is based on direct quotes attributed to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a specific, identifiable regional summit in Panama. While the claims regarding joint military strikes are significant and potentially escalatory, they are presented as a policy announcement by a cabinet-level official, which is standard for reporting on government activities.
No corroborating trusted sources found.
Original report: Saudi Gazette