Colombia runoff vote shaped by security fears and conflict warnings

Colombia’s runoff vote on June 21, 2026 is being shaped by security fears and warnings of renewed conflict, with a long-running disarmament ceremony offering a glimpse of what is at stake. In southern Colombia near La Hormiga, rebels handed over automatic rifles, pistols, and ammunition bandoliers during a Thursday event meant to show progress in dismantling drug-trafficking guerrilla networks. Yet officials and observers say the election outcome may determine whether such ceremonies continue. Polls suggest Abelardo De La Espriella, a far-right criminal defense lawyer and political newcomer endorsed by President Trump, leads and could defeat Iván Cepeda, a left-wing senator allied with outgoing President Gustavo Petro. De La Espriella has pledged a military offensive, including bombing guerrilla camps and targeting aircraft and boats used to smuggle cocaine. Cepeda argues for reducing violence through negotiations after Petro’s “Total Peace” talks, though many have ended without results.