Colombia on the brink: ELN guerrilla group prepares for return to war
Summary
Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN), the country's last active guerrilla group, is preparing to resume armed conflict following the inauguration of President Abelardo de la Espriella, who plans to end peace talks and start a new military offensive. The ELN controls remote jungle areas and is ready to carry out attacks in cities and rural zones if ordered by its leadership.Key Facts
- The ELN is Colombia’s last remaining guerrilla group involved in a 62-year armed conflict.
- President Abelardo de la Espriella, starting office soon, intends to stop peace talks and launch a military campaign against armed groups.
- ELN fighters operate mainly in remote jungle regions such as the Pacific department of Chocó.
- The ELN controls the San Juan River area and competes with the Gulf Clan, a paramilitary group, over territory and resources.
- Colombia’s conflict began in the 1960s due to land inequality and politics excluding many citizens.
- The ELN mixes Marxist ideas and Christian liberation theology in its fight against poverty and oppression.
- The Farc guerrilla group ended its conflict by signing a peace deal in 2016, but the ELN insists on broader political change before disarming.
- Drug trafficking has financed various armed groups on different sides during the conflict.
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