Colombia’s ELN guerrillas have announced a potential shift from peace to total war in response to government actions. Clashes with rival groups have displaced thousands and attracted military intervention. ELN leaders insist on their right to defend their territory amid claims of drug trafficking ties. The government’s peace strategy is under scrutiny as violence intensifies and coca production surges.
Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) commanders declared their readiness to counter a government offensive, warning that a period of ‘total peace’ could devolve into ‘total war.’ In an exclusive interview, commanders voiced their determination to defend against 10,000 government troops positioned nearby. The ELN, engaged in a 60-year insurgency, has become a significant player in the cocaine trade while ongoing clashes with a rival guerrilla group have led to significant displacement and casualties in the northeast since January.
In response to escalating violence, the Colombian government has declared a state of emergency and deployed additional troops to the region. President Gustavo Petro pledged to restore state control and remarked, “The ELN has chosen the path of war, and that’s what they will get.” ELN leaders remain open to dialogue but are prepared for combat, stating their commitment to defending themselves and their territory amid increased military presence.
Analysts argue that recent clashes stem from territorial disputes and competition over lucrative cocaine trafficking routes. The ELN’s territory is crucial for coca production and serves as a transit point for cocaine exports. Although the government links the ELN to Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel, Commander Silvana defended the group’s levying of taxes on local cocaine production while insisting they do not collaborate with traffickers.
The ongoing violence represents a predicament for President Petro, who champions a ‘total peace’ strategy, which has allegedly allowed dissident groups to recover and strengthen. The increase in land devoted to coca production, as reported by the UN, has surged by 420% since 2012. With fears of a return to widespread violence, ELN leadership anticipates increased military actions in the region and insists that the revolution remains essential for societal transformation.
The ELN has signaled its readiness for conflict as Colombia’s peace plan falters, with alarming increases in violence attributed to territorial disputes and drug trade competition. The government’s attempts to achieve peace through limited military operations have been criticized for allowing insurgent groups to strengthen. If the situation continues to escalate, Colombia risks re-entering a cycle of violence that has historically plagued the nation.
Original Source: www.france24.com
