Colombia deploys 5,000 soldiers as rebel violence displaces 20,000

The Colombian government has deployed 5,000 troops to the northeastern Catatumbo region in response to a surge in violence between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) dissidents, which has resulted in over 100 deaths and displaced at least 20,000 people. The recent clashes, largely fueled by disputes over drug trafficking routes and coca production, have led to a state of emergency declaration. Reports indicate that ELN rebels have been executing individuals suspected of ties to rival factions, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for immediate protection for civilians amid rising kidnappings and displacement. The situation has drawn parallels to Colombia's long history of civil conflict, raising concerns of a return to widespread violence. President Gustavo Petro has acknowledged the state's previous failures to curb this violence and has suspended peace talks with the ELN amid the escalating crisis.