Full Breakdown
Escalating Tensions: Colombia, the U.S., and Venezuela's Joint Operations Against ELN
1/13/2026, 11:31:29 AM
Core Event: Joint Military Operations Against ELN
The National Liberation Army (ELN), Colombia's largest remaining rebel group, is facing increased pressure from the Colombian and U.S. governments following the recent capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces. This event has prompted discussions of a joint military operation targeting the ELN in Venezuelan territory, marking a significant shift in regional security dynamics.
Background & Context: Historical Ties and Recent Developments
Founded in the 1960s, the ELN has long operated along the Colombia-Venezuela border, benefiting from the political and military support of Venezuelan regimes. The group's activities have included drug trafficking and illegal mining, which have been sources of revenue. The recent U.S. intervention in Venezuela has altered the landscape for the ELN, raising fears of betrayal by Venezuelan officials and prompting the group to reconfigure its operations in response to potential military actions.
Key Figures & Groups: Leadership and Responses
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has expressed concerns about the potential for U.S. military action against Colombia, especially following President Donald Trump's remarks suggesting that such an operation "sounds good." Petro has called for national unity and warned that any U.S. attack could lead to civil unrest in Colombia. Meanwhile, the ELN has called for a "national accord" to address poverty and drug trafficking, indicating a desire to engage with the new Colombian government post-elections.
Official Statements & Responses
In a recent interview, President Petro stated, "If something happens here against the President of Colombia, that would without a doubt cause a civil war," emphasizing the potential consequences of U.S. military intervention. Following a phone call with Trump, Petro noted a shift in tone, with Trump expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue. Colombian Interior Minister Armando Benedetti confirmed that the two leaders discussed the ELN and potential joint operations against the group.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over Military Action
Critics of U.S. intervention, including human rights advocates, warn that military operations could exacerbate humanitarian crises and lead to civilian displacement. Eliana Paola Zafra, a human rights advocate, stated, "We need a politics of total peace... to defend life, to defend peace, to defend human rights." The potential for a military offensive raises questions about sovereignty and the legitimacy of external actors in internal conflicts.
What's Next: Future Implications and Regional Cooperation
The proposed joint operation involving Colombia, the U.S., and Venezuela could redefine regional security policies and alter the dynamics of the ELN's operations. As preparations for the military action continue, the three governments must navigate the complexities of their historical relationships while addressing the immediate threat posed by the ELN. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for significant geopolitical shifts in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “But that if something happens here against the President of Colombia …” — Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia
- “We need a politics of total peace, we need to empower communities in Latin America to defend life, to defend peace, to defend human rights,” — Eliana Paola Zafra, Human Rights Advocate
- “the issue (with the ELN) is that they need to be attacked when they retreat” — Armando Benedetti, Colombian Interior Minister
- “American dominance in the western hemisphere will never be questioned again,” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
This evolving situation highlights the intricate interplay of local and international politics, as Colombia grapples with the implications of U.S. military strategies and the enduring presence of the ELN.
