As Colombia's new president takes office, the country's last active guerrilla group, the ELN, signals readiness for renewed hostilities.
Colombia's 62-year-old armed conflict appears poised for a new phase as President Abelardo de la Espriella assumes office, pledging to end peace talks and launch a military offensive. The ELN, the nation's last active leftwing rebel group, has indicated it is prepared for any escalation. ELN commander Yerson stated the group is ready to conduct attacks across the country, including in urban and rural areas, if ordered by the ELN leadership. The ELN is currently entrenched in the Pacific region of Chocó, where it faces competition from paramilitary groups like the Gulf Clan for control of the San Juan River and its resources.
The conflict, which began in the 1960s, has been fueled by land inequality, political exclusion, and drug trafficking. The ELN, founded in 1964, has historically sought to transform Colombia's political and economic systems before laying down arms. Previous peace efforts, including those led by President Gustavo Petro, have largely stalled or collapsed, leaving the ELN and other armed groups in a state of continued tension. The ELN and rival groups fight for control of the river's resources and its population, with mining operations and armed groups vying for dominance in the region. The new government's approach may determine whether the country moves toward renewed violence or finds a path to stability.
Why it matters
The resumption of hostilities risks destabilizing Colombia and undermining recent efforts to achieve lasting peace.
This section reflects the Daily Dumpling editorial team's personal interpretation and is provided for general reference only.
What to watch
The ELN's response to the new government's military strategy and the potential for renewed violence across the country.
This section reflects the Daily Dumpling editorial team's personal interpretation and is provided for general reference only.