Colombia’s newly inaugurated President Abelardo de la Espriella, known as “El Tigre,” has requested U.S. collaboration in joint military operations against drug-trafficking and narco-terrorist groups, according to U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The request marks a major shift in Colombia’s security strategy under the new government. De la Espriella has promised a much tougher campaign against armed groups and drug traffickers, including expanded military action and closer cooperation with Washington.

Hegseth said Colombia has joined the U.S.-backed Shield of the Americas initiative and authorized cooperation aimed at confronting narco-terrorism.

The move could significantly deepen military ties between Washington and Bogotá as both governments push for a more aggressive approach to the region’s powerful drug-trafficking networks.