Colombia’s newly elected president, Abelardo De La Espriella, intends to aggressively combat the nation’s status as the world’s top cocaine producer. His proposed strategy involves aerial spraying of herbicides on coca crops, aiming to dismantle the illicit drug industry. This marks a significant shift in drug policy, potentially reviving a controversial tactic previously used – and later halted – due to health and environmental concerns. De La Espriella’s plan signals a hard-line approach to coca cultivation and drug trafficking. The move is expected to face international scrutiny regarding its impact on rural communities and the environment. Details on the specific herbicides and implementation strategies remain to be announced. This policy represents a stark departure from previous attempts at crop substitution programs and focuses on direct eradication.