Colombia military offensive sparks border security concerns

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has initiated a military offensive against irregular armed groups, including a recent bombardment of an ELN camp in the Catatumbo region. The ELN responded with a drone attack using explosives against a military base in Convención, Norte de Santander.

Former prosecutor Rolnar Sanabria warns that this military escalation could displace armed structures into Venezuelan states such as Táchira, Apure, Zulia, Bolívar, and Amazonas. The ELN reportedly maintains a binational structure of over 6,000 members, with approximately 1,400 operating in Venezuelan territory. Additionally, FARC dissidents and the 'Segunda Marquetalia' maintain presence in the border regions.

Beyond military actions, the administration is facing criticism for its policies regarding undocumented immigrants, specifically targeting Venezuelan migrants. The government's approach has been compared to aggressive international leadership styles, characterized by heightened tensions with previous administrations and strict enforcement measures against irregular border crossings.