The ELN guerrilla group in Colombia warns of impending “total war” against the government, resisting military efforts to gain control in northeastern Colombia. The violence, driven by drug trafficking disputes, has led to significant displacement and fatalities, challenging President Petro’s peace initiative. Despite professing a readiness for dialogue, the ELN remains committed to defending its territory, raising concerns over ongoing conflict in the region.
The ELN, Colombia’s leftist guerrilla group, has warned of a “total war” as they resist military actions from President Gustavo Petro’s administration. The group claims that Petro’s initiative for “total peace” is leading to renewed conflict in northeastern Colombia, where the ELN has faced against rival armed factions. The violent clashes since January have resulted in nearly 56,000 displacements and at least 76 fatalities, marking a dire situation in the region since the 2016 peace accord with FARC.
In light of the escalating violence, Petro’s government has declared a state of emergency and deployed 10,000 troops to re-establish order. ELN leader Ricardo has articulated the group’s stance, asserting, “Petro has declared war. We are not afraid of that,” emphasizing their readiness for conflict to defend their territory. He characterized the government’s peace talks as transforming into warfare instead.
The ongoing conflict is fueled by territorial disputes and control over cocaine trafficking routes that lead to Venezuela, with the ELN operating in a significant coca production area. Although authorities assert that the ELN collaborates with Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel, the group counters this by stating they only impose “taxes” on cocaine production to finance their insurgency.
The resurgence in fighting threatens the integrity of Petro’s peace strategy, which aimed to negotiate with armed factions. Critics highlight that discontented groups have exploited the government’s leniency to regain strength and amplify their criminal activities, worsening instability in Colombia.
Recent encounters underscore the instability of Colombia’s peace initiatives. Armed groups are vying for control over lucrative illicit economies, leading to a staggering 420% rise in coca cultivation since 2012, according to the United Nations. Despite the ELN’s professed willingness to engage in dialogue, their commitment to defending their territory hints at the likelihood of continued conflict, as the government aims to restore control over the region.
The ELN’s declaration of “total war” against the Colombian government’s military efforts showcases the precarious nature of ongoing peace initiatives. The rising violence driven by drug trafficking and territorial disputes threatens President Petro’s peace strategy, while also reflecting the resurgence of armed conflict in regions vital for coca cultivation. With both parties firm in their positions, the potential for further escalations remains high, underscoring the fragility of peace in Colombia.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
