Embattled from violence in their own backyard, residents of northeastern Colombia face a surge in conflict. A longstanding rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), has intensified battles for territory, leading to the worst violence the country has seen in decades. In just days, around 80 lives have been lost, with more than 54,000 people forced to flee their homes.
With roots in land and drug disputes, the violence is worsened by the shifting dynamics across the border in Venezuela. After hitting an authoritarian slide, Venezuela's government has allied with the ELN, further igniting chaos. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and experts are alarmed at this growing bond, indicating that the ripple effects of Venezuelan turmoil are significantly contributing to Colombia's current crisis.
With roots in land and drug disputes, the violence is worsened by the shifting dynamics across the border in Venezuela. After hitting an authoritarian slide, Venezuela's government has allied with the ELN, further igniting chaos. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and experts are alarmed at this growing bond, indicating that the ripple effects of Venezuelan turmoil are significantly contributing to Colombia's current crisis.
