Plan Colombia

Plan Colombia was a controversial U.S. aid program initiated in 2000 to combat the drug trade and guerrilla warfare in Colombia. The program provided military assistance to Colombia, aiming to control cocaine production and reduce violence. Despite these efforts, issues like economic uncertainties and political violence persisted.1

Colombian history has been significantly shaped by the growth of drug trafficking and guerrilla warfare. The rise of powerful drug cartels, such as those in Medellín and Cali, led to increased violence and challenges for the government. Various administrations attempted to negotiate peace with guerrilla groups like the FARC and ELN, and to address the drug trade, but these efforts were often met with further conflict and instability.23