Colombia's ELN Guerrilla Group Orders Civilians Indoors Amid Military Exercises Responding to US Pressure
Colombia's oldest surviving guerrilla group, the ELN, has ordered civilians in areas under its control to stay indoors for 72 hours starting 6am Sunday while it conducts military exercises. This move is seen as a response to perceived intervention threats from US President Donald Trump concerning cocaine-producing countries.
The ELN has about 5,800 combatants and operates in more than a fifth of Colombia's municipalities. It has also expanded its presence into Venezuela, reportedly active in eight of Venezuela's 24 states, which has increased its influence in the region.
Peace talks between the ELN and Colombia's President Gustavo Petro's government were suspended two years ago after the rebels intensified attacks. Despite the group's civic rhetoric, it remains heavily involved in the drug trade, including coca cultivation and trafficking networks.
Colombia is the world's top cocaine producer according to UN estimates. The ELN competes for territory and trafficking routes in this lucrative market. The United States has increased pressure on Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro with actions including a $50 million bounty and a Caribbean military buildup, as well as airstrikes targeting alleged narco vessels.
