ELN Guerrilla Attack on Colombian Military Base Results in Casualties

On December 19, 2025, the National Liberation Army (ELN), a designated terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union, launched a drone and explosive attack on Military Base 27 in Aguachica, located in Colombia's northeastern department of Cesar, near the Venezuelan border. The assault resulted in the deaths of at least seven Colombian soldiers and injuries to 30 others. The soldiers were reportedly resting in hammocks after a training session when the attack occurred.

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Founded in 1964 and inspired by the Cuban revolution, the ELN is the oldest surviving guerrilla group in the Americas and is known for controlling key drug-producing regions in Colombia. The group has a significant presence in over a fifth of Colombia's municipalities and has expanded its influence into neighboring Venezuela. Efforts to negotiate peace settlements with the ELN have repeatedly stalled, leading to ongoing violence.

The Guardian

Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the attack, labeling it a "terrorist action" and emphasizing the need to dismantle the ELN to protect the population. He noted that while the armed forces have successfully prevented around 95% of drone attacks, the threat from the ELN has escalated rapidly. President Gustavo Petro also responded, attributing the attack to a lack of advanced anti-drone systems and ordering their immediate procurement to prevent future incidents. He highlighted the need for enhanced intelligence and operational measures to counter the ELN's activities.

7 Colombian soldiers killed in attack on military base

The attack coincided with the ELN's declaration of a nationwide "armed strike" in response to perceived threats of U.S. intervention in Colombia. This strike included violent actions against infrastructure and public forces. The ELN has vowed to defend Colombia against what it describes as imperialist threats, further complicating the security landscape in the region. The United States has imposed sanctions on President Petro for his alleged reluctance to confront drug cartels, warning that he could face consequences due to Colombia's status as the world's leading cocaine producer.

Six Colombian Soldiers Killed in Guerrilla Attack

Critics of the Colombian government's approach argue that the ongoing violence and the ELN's actions reflect the failure of peace negotiations and the government's inability to effectively address the underlying issues driving the conflict. The ELN's involvement in the drug trade complicates its ideological stance, as it operates as both a guerrilla group and a powerful organized crime entity.

The Guardian

There are discrepancies in casualty figures reported by various sources. While the Colombian Army initially reported six soldiers killed, the number was later updated to seven. Additionally, reports on the number of wounded soldiers vary, with figures ranging from 28 to 30.

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• “In this terrorist act, the criminals used drones equipped with improvised explosive devices and carried out the indiscriminate launching of unconventional explosive devices,” — Colombian Army Statement

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• “I categorically reject the ELN’s terrorist action using drones and launching of explosive devices against a Military Base,” — Pedro Sánchez, Colombian Defense Minister

The Defense Post

• “around 95% of drone attacks, this threat has grown exponentially and at a very rapid pace, which seriously jeopardizes national security.” — Pedro Sánchez, Colombian Defense Minister

CNN

The situation remains fluid as authorities continue to investigate the attack and assess the implications for national security and ongoing peace efforts.

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