Colombia Declares Emergency as ELN-FARC Clashes Kill 80, Displace 36,000; Arrest Warrants Reactivated

Jan 22, 2025, 01:38 AM

Colombia is facing one of the deadliest outbreaks of violence since the 2016 peace accords, with over 80 people killed and more than 36,000 displaced, including 35% children, in the Catatumbo region due to ongoing clashes between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). President Gustavo Petro, referring to the situation as a 'failure of the nation,' has declared a state of internal disturbance and emergency economic measures to address the humanitarian crisis. The Colombian Prosecutor's Office has reactivated arrest warrants against 31 ELN leaders, including top commanders involved in suspended peace negotiations. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and demanded an immediate cessation of hostilities against civilians. The conflict has led to mass displacements from multiple municipalities, with thousands of families fleeing to cities like Cúcuta and Ocaña, and even crossing into Venezuela. The government is coordinating efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to the affected population, but the situation remains critical.