President Donald Trump issued a public congratulatory message and declared his support for Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella.

The endorsement signals a strategic effort by the Trump administration to reshape diplomatic ties with Colombia. By backing Espriella, who has pledged to fully restore relations with the U.S., the administration seeks to establish a future alliance based on mutual respect.

Trump spoke from the Oval Office in Washington, D.C., on the night of June 2, 2026 [1]. During the address, the president said his backing of the candidate was a "complete and total" endorsement [2].

"Es un honor para mí brindarle mi respaldo," Trump said [3].

The timing of the endorsement has drawn varying reports. Some accounts suggest Trump sent the message on the night of June 2, the same day first-round results were released [1]. Other reports indicate the endorsement occurred two days after Espriella emerged as the most voted candidate in that initial round [2].

Espriella responded to the president's message by expressing his gratitude for the high-level support. "Estoy muy honrado," Espriella said [3].

The Colombian candidate has positioned his campaign as a bridge to the United States, promising a return to strong bilateral cooperation. Trump said the move was intended to strengthen the relationship between the two nations, and explore a more formal alliance moving forward [3].

This public alignment comes at a critical juncture as Colombia prepares for the second-round runoff. The endorsement provides Espriella with significant international visibility and a perceived mandate of approval from the White House [1].

“"Respaldo completo y total"”

This endorsement represents a pivot in U.S. foreign policy toward Colombia, prioritizing a leadership transition that favors a total restoration of bilateral ties. By intervening publicly before the second-round election, the Trump administration is attempting to secure a predictable and aligned partner in the region, potentially influencing the geopolitical landscape of South America.