Colombia will pay 4.3 billion dollars for 17 Swedish Gripen aircraft, in response to tensions with the USA and to deter external aggressions.

The Colombian president Gustavo Petro announced the commitment to invest 4.3 billion dollars in the purchase of 17 Swedish Gripen fighter jets, with the aim of deterring external aggressions and protecting the country. This decision comes against the backdrop of tensions with Washington, which has intensified the deployment of forces in the Caribbean and has conducted airstrikes on ships suspected of drug trafficking.

Petro emphasized that these aircraft are essential to prevent "killings of people" and other aggressions. Although the USA and France offered planes, the Colombian president rejected both offers. Tensions between Colombia and the USA have escalated, especially after Donald Trump's accusations against the Colombian leader regarding cocaine production and Colombia's withdrawal from the list of allies in the drug war.