A state of emergency has been declared in northeastern Colombia due to a surge in guerrilla violence that left over 100 people dead and displaced nearly 20,000 others. President Gustavo Petro announced the measure following clashes between rival factions of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The conflict began last year when the FARC factions split due to internal differences, with one side engaging in peace talks while the other continues armed resistance.
The violence has resulted in significant human suffering, with 18,300 people displaced in the Catatumbo region alone. Clashes between rival groups have also killed at least 20 deaths in Guaviare jungle. President Petro has vowed to respond with military force, deploying thousands of troops to affected regions. The measure allows the executive branch to pass certain kinds of legislation without congressional approval for three months.
Colombia’s six-decade conflict, fueled by drug trafficking, has claimed over 450,000 lives and displaced millions. This latest surge in violence marks a turning point for President Petro, who was elected on the promise of “total peace” in 2022. However, with the ELN choosing the path of war, Petro has signaled a shift in policy, pledging to respond with force.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/colombia-to-declare-state-of-emergency-after-rebel-violence/a-71356309