COLOMBIA'S DRUG WAR

To the Editor: Re "A Test Ahead for Powell (and His Doctrine)'' (Week in
Review, Dec. 17):

Unlike our experience in Somalia or Vietnam, United States ground forces are
not and will not be deployed as part of antidrug efforts in Colombia. Our
activities include training and technical assistance for Colombia's security
forces and criminal justice system; money for alternate economic development
and drug interdiction; and support for peace initiatives.

This multifaceted strategy is essential given the complex situation in
Colombia. Guerrillas and militia groups support themselves through drug
trafficking, kidnapping, extorting money and killing civilians. A military
solution is not our objective, but absent minimal safety guarantees, no
peaceful solution is possible.

Some members of Congress support earmarking more support for the Colombian
National Police. While we share their admiration for this organization, the
security threats facing Colombia go beyond the national police's
law-enforcement capabilities.

Janet Crist, Chief of Staff, Office of National Drug Control Policy,
Washington, Dec. 26, 2000

Editor's Note: The article referred to appeared in the Current News
Supplement, December 19, 2000.