Violence between rival left-wing groups in Colombia’s border region with Venezuela has led to the deaths of at least 30 people, prompting President Gustavo Petro to suspend peace talks with the National Liberation Army (ELN). The violence, which erupted on Thursday, was linked to a territorial dispute involving the cocaine trade, particularly in the town of Tibu, located in the North Santander department. The ELN is accused of targeting dissidents from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), further escalating the situation.
The attacks, which left 20 people injured, are believed to have been a result of ELN gunmen going “house to house” in search of individuals with connections to the FARC. This marks the latest chapter in Colombia’s ongoing struggle with armed groups fighting for control of coca-growing regions along the Colombia-Venezuela border. These areas have become a focal point for the drug trade, contributing to the global cocaine market.
The conflict in the region has displaced numerous families, with more than 20 people reported missing. The Colombian government responded swiftly, sending military troops to restore order, evacuating some of the wounded by helicopter. Despite the army’s intervention, the situation remains dire, with public officials expressing concern over the growing power of the ELN, which, despite its nationalist and leftist rhetoric, has become deeply involved in organized crime, particularly the drug trade.
The violence has also become a political setback for President Petro, who has centered his administration’s policies on a vision of “Total Peace.” This initiative includes peace talks with various armed groups, including the ELN, which has long been one of Colombia’s largest guerrilla organizations. However, the recent attacks have led to growing skepticism over the group’s willingness to negotiate. President Petro condemned the ELN’s actions, accusing them of committing “war crimes” and expressing frustration over the group’s lack of commitment to peace.
The suspension of peace talks with the ELN follows a breakdown in negotiations last year after the group carried out a deadly attack on a military base. For now, the violence in the border region remains a significant challenge to Colombia’s efforts to secure lasting peace.
