Colombia: ELN Calls for Unity of Armed Groups Amid Potential US Attack

The head of the ELN in Colombia has called for unity among armed organizations, amid fears of a potential US military intervention. This move comes after previous threats from Donald Trump regarding cocaine-producing countries.

Antonio Garcia, head of the ELN, stated that he would support unification with other rebel groups to defend Colombia against foreign invasion. This proposal follows a similar suggestion by Ivan Mordisco, leader of dissenting former FARC members.

Tensions between Colombia and the US appear to be de-escalating, with President Gustavo Petro expected to meet with Donald Trump at the White House on February 3rd. The two leaders will discuss ways to combat drug traffickers.

Negotiations between the Petro government and the ELN were abandoned in January 2025, following attacks by the organization against rival rebels.

Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the proposal to unite the rebels is due to the increasing threat against them.