Trump endorses Colombia's De la Espriella ahead of presidential run-off

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday endorsed right-wing presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella ahead of Colombia's June 21 presidential run-off election.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said that the election would be crucial for the future of relations between Colombia and the United States, adding that it was his honour to give de la Espriella his "complete and total endorsement."

"The results of this election are very important to the future of Colombia and its relationship with the United States. Because of his tremendous accomplishments in life, and his political support for me personally, it is my honour to give Abelardo my Complete and Total Endorsement," Trump wrote.

Following the endorsement, de la Espriella pledged to strengthen ties with Washington, saying relations with the United States would be closer than ever if he wins the presidency, according to AFP.

More from World

Surprise first-round victory

De la Espriella emerged as the surprise winner of the first round of Colombia's presidential election on Tuesday, securing more than 43 per cent of the vote. His rival, Cepeda, finished second with around 41 per cent.

The two candidates are set to face off in the June 21 run-off. Recent polls suggest de la Espriella holds a slight advantage over his left-wing opponent.

Cepeda, an ideological ally of outgoing President Gustavo Petro, has pledged to continue the administration's policy of dialogue with armed groups, including organisations involved in drug trafficking.

De la Espriella, by contrast, has campaigned on a tough-on-crime platform, promising to use military force against armed groups linked to drug trafficking. He has also proposed a "shock plan" to restore security, including the construction of large prisons modelled on El Salvador's anti-crime strategy.

Petro alleges political interference

Trump's endorsement drew a sharp response from President Petro, who accused the US leader of interfering in Colombia's domestic affairs.

"When one country intervenes in the decisions of another country, freedom dies," Petro said, according to AFP.

During Petro's presidency, relations with Trump have frequently been strained. The two leaders clashed publicly over migration policies and Trump's hardline approach to combating drug trafficking, which included military operations targeting suspected drug-smuggling vessels in Latin America.

Trump has previously described Petro as a "drug leader" and imposed sanctions on him. However, relations appeared to improve after Petro visited the White House in February this year.

"I invite all Colombians to vote in complete freedom," Petro said in his message.