BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — The largest remaining rebel group in Colombia has declared a unilateral truce that will be in effect until January 3rd, marking the first ceasefire since the previous one collapsed in August.
In a statement released by the National Liberation Army (ELN) on Sunday, the rebel group announced a temporary halt to attacks on the military, allowing for a period of peace during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro took to his social media account to share the news of the truce, expressing a hopeful message that the ultimate goal for the nation in 2025 is an end to the ongoing conflict.
The ELN, established in the 1960s by university students, priests, and union leaders who drew inspiration from the Cuban revolution, currently boasts an estimated 6,000 fighters operating in Colombia and Venezuela. The group sustains itself through illicit activities such as illegal mining, extortion schemes, and involvement in the drug trade.
As the ELN has expanded its presence in certain rural regions of Colombia, it has capitalized on the void left by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) following the peace agreement they reached with the Colombian government in 2016.
Initiating its own peace negotiations with the Petro administration two years ago, the ELN managed to secure a ceasefire that was implemented in August of the following year. However, the talks hit a roadblock due to disagreements over the timing of ceasing actions such as kidnapping and extorting civilians. Furthermore, ELN leaders were displeased with the government’s decision to engage in separate discussions with a splinter group located in the southwest of the country.
The breakdown of the ceasefire four months ago led to an escalation of attacks orchestrated by the ELN on military targets and oil infrastructure along the Colombian-Venezuelan border.
In pursuit of an all-encompassing peace initiative, the Petro administration has endeavored to engage in peace talks with various armed factions in the rural areas of the country. This approach, commonly referred to as total peace, has drawn criticism from ELN leaders who argue that the government should focus on combating these groups rather than negotiating with them.
Despite the setbacks and challenges in the peace process, both the Colombian government and the ELN remain committed to reaching a lasting resolution to the decades-long conflict that has plagued the region. The recent truce represents a step towards fostering an environment conducive to dialogue and negotiation, with the hope of ultimately achieving a comprehensive and sustainable peace agreement that benefits all parties involved.
As Colombia continues to navigate the complexities of post-conflict reconciliation, the efforts of both the government and the rebel groups will play a crucial role in shaping the future trajectory of the nation, paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous coexistence for all its citizens.
