The official said that while Congress had authorized $450 million for the Pentagon's use in fiscal year 1990 in support of the campaign against illegal drugs, most of the money for the Colombian and related Caribbean anti-drug operation would come from training funds. But the official said "one weak link" in the massive operation could be the handoff to Colombian authorities, who are expected to take up the enforcement role.

Their proposals, approved by [Dick Cheney], have been sent to [George Bush]. "The president may choose to alter it," the official said, referring to the Colombian venture. The official said the maneuver targets Colombia "because that country is one of the major flow points. We are proposing a virtual air and sea blockade."