Colombia Resumes Offensive Operations Against ELN Rebels

Colombia's armed forces have restarted military operations against the National Liberation Army (ELN) following the end of a six-month ceasefire. President Gustavo Petro's administration aims for peace but negotiations with ELN have broken down, necessitating resumed operations.

Colombia's armed forces have resumed military operations against the leftist rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), after a six-month ceasefire expired. This announcement came from Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez on Monday.

President Gustavo Petro's government, Colombia's first left-wing administration, initially restarted peace talks with the ELN at the end of 2022. However, these negotiations have frequently stalled, exacerbating the six-decade-long conflict that has claimed more than 450,000 lives.

The ELN, classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and EU, ended its kidnapping suspension, a crucial financing source, and returned to offensive activities. Colombia's government has also revoked a ceasefire with certain factions of former FARC rebels, although it continues separate peace talks with other dissident factions.

(With inputs from agencies.)