Trump declares support for De La Espriella for Colombia's presidential election

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, declared this Tuesday (2) his support for Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo De La Espriella, an ultra-right lawyer who will face left-wing senator Iván Cepeda in the second round of elections this month.

"The results of this election are very important for the future of Colombia and its relationship with the United States," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

The US president also called De La Espriella an "intelligent, strong and determined leader". The ultra-rightist won 43.74% of the votes in the first round and an advantage of more than 673 thousand votes over Cepeda, who obtained 40.90%.

The result generated criticism and accusations of possible fraud by the current Colombian president, Gustavo Petro. International election observers say there were no irregularities in the election.

De La Espriella structured his speech to win over conservative voters and anger the current government. He has already filed lawsuits against journalists, been accused of sexism and claims to be the greatest enemy of communism.

"Given his enormous achievements in life and his personal political support, it is an honor to grant Abelardo my full and unrestricted support," Trump said.

The second round is scheduled for June 21st.

Elections in Colombia: Who is Abelardo de la Espriella

Source: CNN