Colombia Military High Command Replaced as De la Espriella Orders a Territorial Push
Colombia · SECURITY
Key Facts
- —Announcement President Abelardo de la Espriella announced the new command on 20 August 2026 from Barranquilla.
- —Top post Major General Erick Rodriguez Aparicio was named Commander General of the Military Forces.
- —Army Major General Jose Bertulfo Soto Sanchez leads the National Army, with Brigadier General Rodolfo Morales Franco as second.
- —Navy Vice Admiral Javier Jaimes Pinilla commands the Navy, with Major General Rafael Olaya Quintero as second.
- —Air Force Major General Juan Martinez Ossa heads the Air Force, with Major General Juan Mosquera Duenas as second.
The new leadership marks a sharp break from the total peace policy of the previous government, analysts say.
The Colombia military high command has been replaced in full. President Abelardo de la Espriella has told the new commanders to win back security across the country.
He made the announcement from Barranquilla on 20 August, according to Infobae, citing EFE.
Who Is In the Colombia Military High Command Now
Major General Erick Rodriguez Aparicio now serves as Commander General of the Military Forces, according to the Presidency and El Tiempo. Major General Carlos Enrique Carrasquilla Gomez was named Chief of the Joint Staff, as Infobae and Blu Radio reported.
In addition, Major General Jose Bertulfo Soto Sanchez commands the National Army, with Brigadier General Rodolfo Morales Franco as second in command. Vice Admiral Javier Jaimes Pinilla leads the Navy, supported by Major General Rafael Olaya Quintero.
Air Force Gets New Name
Meanwhile, Major General Juan Martinez Ossa takes charge of the Air Force, with Major General Juan Mosquera Duenas as his deputy. The Fuerza Aeroespacial, or Aerospace Force, has reverted to its earlier name, Fuerza Aerea Colombiana, the Colombian Air Force.
This change reflects a return to traditional terminology, as the Presidency and Infobae confirmed. Overall, the new lineup signals a fresh start for the military.
Territorial Push Ordered
President de la Espriella told the new command to recover security across the entire territory, according to Infobae citing EFE. He also instructed them to fight crime with state backing and the use of force.
Moreover, he directed the commanders to confront illegal armed groups and regain territorial control in several regions. This directive emphasizes a proactive approach to security.
Returning Officers
Some of the new commanders, including Rodriguez Aparicio, had left service during the Petro government and now return to active duty. Semana and Blu Radio reported this development.
Therefore, their return marks a significant shift in leadership experience and perspective. In fact, it brings back officers with prior service records.
Shift From Total Peace
Analysts read the emphasis on force as a turn away from the last government’s paz total, or total peace, policy. Semana and Infobae Colombia reported these views.
As a result, some experts warn about potential human rights risks. By contrast, supporters may see this as a necessary response to insecurity.
Personnel Changes
El Tiempo reported that 25 generals and admirals from the Petro era are leaving. This large-scale change reshapes the upper ranks of the military.
Still, the new appointments bring a mix of fresh and returning leadership. Consequently, the high command now reflects the new president’s priorities.
Presidential Context
Abelardo de la Espriella took office as president of Colombia on 7 August 2026, succeeding Gustavo Petro. His early actions signal a decisive security agenda.
Since his inauguration, he has moved quickly to assert control over military strategy. Therefore, this high command change is a key early step.
Reactions and Analysis
The announcement has drawn attention from Colombian media, including Semana and Caracol Radio. While some see it as a positive move, others raise concerns.
Even so, the president’s instructions are clear: use force to regain control. In short, the new leadership has a clear mandate.
What the Colombia Military High Command Must Do Next
The new Colombia military high command faces the task of implementing the territorial push. Their success will depend on coordination and execution.
Although challenges remain, the direction is set. After the change, the military is poised for a more assertive role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new commander of the Military Forces?
Major General Erick Rodriguez Aparicio was named Commander General of the Military Forces. He had previously left service during the Petro government and now returns to active duty.
What does the territorial push involve?
The president ordered the new command to recover security across the whole territory. This includes fighting crime with state backing and confronting illegal armed groups to regain territorial control in several regions.
Why is the Air Force name changing?
The Fuerza Aeroespacial, or Aerospace Force, is reverting to its earlier name, Fuerza Aerea Colombiana, the Colombian Air Force. This change was confirmed by the Presidency and Infobae.
How does this differ from the previous government’s policy?
Analysts see the emphasis on force as a turn away from the ‘paz total’ or total peace policy of the previous government. Some warn about human rights risks, while others view it as a necessary response.
Connected Coverage
Sources: Infobae; EFE; El Tiempo; Semana; Presidency of Colombia.
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