As newly inaugurated Colombian president Abelardo de la Espriella promises a fresh military offensive, the ELN guerrilla group is preparing to fight back, raising fears of a return to war.
Key facts
- Abelardo de la Espriella has taken office as Colombia's president, vowing a new military offensive.
- The National Liberation Army (ELN) is preparing to return to armed conflict.
- The ELN is described as Colombia's last leftwing rebel group.
- ELN fighters were observed setting up camp in the jungle, concealed from enemy drones.
Colombia is facing the prospect of renewed conflict as its newly inaugurated president, Abelardo de la Espriella, vows a new military offensive against the country’s remaining leftwing rebels, according to the Guardian.
In response, the National Liberation Army (ELN), described as Colombia’s last leftwing rebel group, is preparing to fight back, the Guardian reported.
The report describes a scene along a jungle riverbank, where camouflaged figures watched from the tree line as a boat approached. Behind them, in the understory of the jungle, an ELN commander sat with a rifle on his lap.
The commander’s troops were setting up camp, hidden from enemy drones, amid the sounds of insects and the thwacks of machetes on bamboo, according to the account.
The confluence of a new administration promising military action and rebels readying for combat signals a potential escalation in a country with a long history of armed conflict.
Why it matters
A return to war between the Colombian state and the ELN could reverse years of fragile peace efforts and deepen instability across the country. The stance of the new president marks a significant shift in policy that may reshape Colombia's security landscape.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Colombia's new president?
Abelardo de la Espriella has taken office as Colombia's president, vowing a new military offensive, according to the Guardian.
What is the ELN?
The National Liberation Army (ELN) is described by the Guardian as Colombia's last leftwing rebel group, which is now preparing to return to armed conflict.
Why is Colombia at risk of returning to war?
The new president has promised a military offensive while the ELN prepares to fight back, raising the prospect of renewed conflict, according to the Guardian.