A guerrilla drone attack on a military garrison in Colombia killed at least two soldiers and wounded five others on Friday, authorities said. President Abelardo de la Espriella blamed the country's largest active armed group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), for the attack. The incident occurred in Ocana, in the northeastern Catatumbo region, where the government is conducting military operations against guerrillas. A military source reported that at least 20 drones loaded with explosives were used in the attack.
Colombia, the world's largest cocaine producer, is grappling with its worst violence in a decade. Since taking office, President de la Espriella has intensified bombings and ground operations against armed groups. The country has also joined the Shield of the Americas, an anti-cartel alliance of Latin American countries spearheaded by US President Donald Trump. De la Espriella is scheduled to receive US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Barranquilla next week.
Background on the Conflict
The National Liberation Army (ELN) is Colombia's second-largest guerrilla group, formed in 1964 with a leftist, nationalist, and Christian ideology. The group has been involved in numerous attacks against the Colombian government and military, often targeting infrastructure and security forces. The recent drone attack highlights the evolving tactics of guerrilla groups, who are increasingly using technology to carry out their operations.
Government Response
President Abelardo de la Espriella has taken a hardline stance against guerrilla groups since taking office. His administration has increased military operations and bombings against armed groups, aiming to curb the rising violence. The government's joining of the Shield of the Americas reflects a broader regional effort to combat drug cartels and guerrilla groups, with support from the United States.
The attack killed at least two soldiers and wounded five others. At least 20 drones loaded with explosives were reportedly used.
Colombia is experiencing its worst violence in a decade, largely driven by its status as the world's largest cocaine producer. The government is conducting intense military operations against guerrilla groups.
The Shield of the Americas is an anti-cartel alliance of Latin American countries, including Colombia, Argentina, Ecuador, and El Salvador, supported by the United States under President Donald Trump.
