Colombia Peace Talks Collapse: 80 Dead, Several Kidnapped
Over 80 deaths and 20 injuries resulted from attacks in Colombia’s Catatumbo region, following the collapse of peace talks with the ELN. These attacks, targeting civilians including peace negotiators, forced thousands to flee their homes, seeking refuge in mountains or government shelters. The Colombian government has demanded a cessation of hostilities and access for humanitarian aid, while the ELN blames former FARC members for initiating the violence. The conflict stems from a power struggle over coca cultivation in the strategic border region.
John Q. Hosedrinker