Colombia’s President Petro Warns ELN Rebel Attack Threatens Peace Process
Colombia’s ongoing struggle for peace faces a critical moment, with President Gustavo Petro warning that a recent attack by the National Liberation Army (ELN) could jeopardize the fragile peace process. The peace talks between the Colombian government and the ELN have been a cornerstone of Petro’s administration, but this violent escalation risks undoing years of progress. As Colombia seeks to move beyond its tumultuous history of conflict, the road to peace remains fraught with challenges. The Fragile Peace Process in Colombia Since taking office in August 2022, President Gustavo Petro has made significant efforts to restore peace with the ELN, Colombia’s last active rebel group. The ELN, which has operated since 1964, has been involved in armed conflict with the Colombian government, advocating for social justice and economic reforms, particularly concerning land redistribution and wealth inequality. Unlike the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) , which signed a peace d