The Colombian National Liberation Army (ELN) warns that the peace process is deteriorating into potential total war as it prepares to resist government military action. The escalation of violence has led to significant displacement and casualties, challenging President Gustavo Petro’s peace efforts. The ELN insists on its revolutionary stance, indicating more conflict in the near future unless significant political changes occur.
The Colombian National Liberation Army (ELN) has issued a stark warning regarding escalating violence as their peace plan encounters significant challenges. Senior commanders indicated that they are prepared to confront a government counteroffensive involving extensive troops in the northeastern region of Colombia, cautioning that years of purported “total peace” risk devolving into “total war.”
In a rare interview conducted in a concealed location, the ELN’s commanders expressed their readiness to resist approximately 10,000 government troops, reinforcing their long-standing insurgency which has persisted for six decades. This conflict, primarily rooted in a struggle for territory and cocaine trade routes, has resulted in the recent displacement of nearly 56,000 individuals and claimed at least 76 lives since clashes intensified early this year.
In response to the escalating situation, Colombian President Gustavo Petro declared a state of emergency and mobilized significant military forces. He stated, “The ELN has chosen the path of war, and that’s what they will get,” emphasizing the government’s determination to reclaim control. The ELN’s leaders acknowledged their willingness to engage in dialogue but asserted their commitment to defend against military incursions.
Commander Silvana Guerrero, despite being a wanted figure, clarified that while the ELN does impose taxes on coca production in the regions they control, they do not see themselves as narcotraffickers, maintaining their stance of defending local communities. The government’s allegations of ties to the Sinaloa Cartel were firmly denied by the group.
The current situation represents a substantial challenge for President Petro, who has adopted a policy aimed at fostering “total peace.” Critics contend that the absence of military action against non-signatory groups has allowed dissident factions to further consolidate their power, exacerbating the ongoing conflict. Notably, land used for cocaine cultivation has surged by 420 percent since 2012, as armed groups vie for dominance in illegal activities across Colombia.
As tensions remain high, Commander Silvana hinted at a forthcoming larger counteroffensive from the ELN in the Catatumbo region, while Ricardo invoked the necessity of their revolutionary efforts. He urged that transformation within the state is essential to avert continued conflict, pledging that their resistance will persist until their goals are realized.
In summary, the situation in Colombia is precarious as the ELN and the government face the prospect of escalating violence. With the ongoing insurgency and recent clashes resulting in significant casualties and displacement, the prospects for peace appear increasingly bleak. The government’s strategy of limited military intervention, combined with the ELN’s determination to maintain control over its territory, suggests a challenging road ahead for achieving stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
