Colombian Rebel Group ELN Vows No Attacks Despite Ceasefire Expiry

The National Liberation Army (ELN) of Colombia will not attack the military despite the expiry of its ceasefire with the government. The group, however, mentioned it would defend itself if provoked. Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez announced the resumption of military operations against the ELN after peace talks stalled.

Colombia's leftist rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), declared on Tuesday that it will not initiate attacks on the country's military despite the expiration of a ceasefire agreement with the government.

The ELN emphasized its commitment to peace, stating, "Within the framework of the desire for peace, the ELN will not carry out offensive operations against the military, police, or security forces of the Colombian state." However, the group reserved the right to self-defense if attacked.

This announcement came a day after Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez disclosed that Colombia's military would resume operations against the guerrillas following the end of a six-month truce on Saturday. President Gustavo Petro, Colombia's first left-wing leader, had reinitiated peace talks with the ELN in late 2022, aiming to resolve a six-decade-long conflict that has claimed over 450,000 lives.

Talks have since stalled, with the ELN resuming kidnappings to finance their operations, a practice that had previously been suspended. Negotiations with past Colombian administrations have often collapsed due to the ELN's radical stances and internal dissent.

(With inputs from agencies.)