Colombian guerrillas from the National Liberation Army (ELN) have warned of ‘total war’ as tensions escalate with government forces. Commanders, in a rare interview, expressed readiness to confront the military’s counteroffensive, while clashes have displaced thousands and resulted in numerous deaths. The ELN’s assertion of territorial control amid allegations of narcotrafficking complicate the peace efforts initiated by President Petro, who faces increasing criticism over the state of security in the country.
In a recent announcement, commanders from Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) have warned of impending “total war” as the current peace plan deteriorates. In an interview at a concealed location near the Venezuelan border, they conveyed their determination to confront 10,000 government troops situated nearby, expressing that a long period of proposed “total peace” is at risk of devolving into full-scale conflict.
The ELN, a prominent insurgent group involved in a six-decade struggle against the Colombian government, has increasingly engaged in violent confrontations, displacing nearly 56,000 individuals and resulting in at least 76 fatalities in the Catatumbo region since January. The government, in response, has declared a state of emergency and dispatched thousands of troops to restore order, with President Gustavo Petro asserting his willingness to enforce state control if necessary.
Guarded by armed personnel, ELN Commanders “Ricardo” and “Silvana Guerrero” stated they are willing to engage in dialogue, but remain resolute in their readiness for combat. Commander Ricardo articulated his perspective, remarking, “Petro has declared war. We are not afraid of that,” emphasizing their commitment to defend their position as an insurgent force.
The recent spike in violence is attributed to a territorial conflict with the 33rd Front, another insurgent group, over routes utilized for lucrative cocaine trafficking towards Venezuela. Although the government has alleged ties between the ELN and Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel, Commander Silvana asserted that the group merely imposes a tax on local cocaine production, distancing themselves from being classified as narcotraffickers.
The escalating confrontation between the ELN and government forces underscores the fragile state of peace in Colombia. With increasing violence linked to territorial disputes and narcotrafficking, critics argue that this situation reflects broader failures in governance. The ELN’s commitments to revolution and armed resistance could reverse recent diplomatic efforts, returning Colombia to a state of internal conflict reminiscent of its historical past.
Original Source: www.france24.com
