Just how far will the ELN go to make its presence felt?
On Thursday night, Colombia’s oldest guerilla group launched a deadly assault on a military base near the Venezuelan border.
Seven soldiers were killed and 30 more wounded.
Drones and explosives were used in the attack — a stark reminder of how modern insurgents are upgrading their tactics.
Founded in 1964 and inspired by the Cuban revolution, the ELN controls key drug-producing regions and has long resisted peace efforts.
This latest clash in Aguachica comes just days after two police officers were killed in Cali.
It marks a violent week for Colombian security forces.
ELN Attack Escalates
Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned the strike on X, calling it “a terrorist action” and insisting the group “must be completely dismantled.”
Videos circulating online showed wounded soldiers being rushed to medical centres on stretchers and in wheelchairs.
Fires from explosions engulfed parts of the outpost.
President Gustavo Petro, who once had ties to guerilla movements himself, has tried negotiating with well-armed cocaine-producing groups.
He has been doing this since taking office in 2022.
But talks have repeatedly faltered, leaving violence as the grim status quo.
With drones now part of the ELN’s arsenal, how can Colombia hope to contain the group?
The ELN is blending old-school insurgency with modern technology.
One thing is clear: peace talks alone may no longer be enough to keep soldiers safe.
