In 2016, Colombia celebrated a historic peace deal with rebel groups, aiming to end decades of conflict. The United States played a crucial role in this success, providing significant support through U.S.A.I.D., which helped displaced farmers reclaim their lands and facilitated the prosecution of war crimes. However, this crucial backing is now disappearing due to aid cuts by the Trump administration to various foreign programs, including the dismantling of U.S.A.I.D.
Experts stress that this withdrawal of support undermines the trust and stability built by the peace agreement. León Valencia, head of a peace-focused organization in Bogotá, noted that armed groups are taking advantage of the situation to undermine the government's commitment to keeping its promises to the Colombian people. Since 2001, U.S.A.I.D. has invested around $3.9 billion in Colombia, making it the South American country with the highest level of U.S. aid. As violence escalates, many fear that the lack of U.S. support will only empower those who oppose the peace process, threatening to plunge the nation back into chaos.
Experts stress that this withdrawal of support undermines the trust and stability built by the peace agreement. León Valencia, head of a peace-focused organization in Bogotá, noted that armed groups are taking advantage of the situation to undermine the government's commitment to keeping its promises to the Colombian people. Since 2001, U.S.A.I.D. has invested around $3.9 billion in Colombia, making it the South American country with the highest level of U.S. aid. As violence escalates, many fear that the lack of U.S. support will only empower those who oppose the peace process, threatening to plunge the nation back into chaos.
