Colombian ELN rebels will not attack military despite ceasefire end

7/8/2024 11:24

        Colombian leftist rebel group the National Liberation Army (ELN) will not attack the country's military even after its ceasefire with the government expired.
        
        The ELN said in a statement, "Within the framework of the desire for peace, the ELN will not carry out offensive operations against the military, police or security forces of the Colombian state."
        
        However, the group said it would act in self defense if it was attacked.
        
        On Monday, Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez said Colombia's military would restart military operations against the guerrillas after a six-month ceasefire between the two sides ended on Saturday.
        
        The government of President Gustavo Petro, Colombia's first left-wing leader, restarted peace talks with the ELN at the end of 2022 as part of its total peace policy, looking to end the country's six-decade conflict that has left more than 450,000 dead.
        
        Peace talks froze in recent months and the ELN ended its suspension of kidnappings - which security sources say provide the group with much-needed financing - representing the return of one of the most feared elements of Colombia's conflict.