Soldiers killed in Colombia

An attack by Colombia's National Liberation Army (ELN) on the Puerto Jordan military base in Arauca province resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to at least 27 others. The attack involved homemade rockets launched from a dump truck, causing significant damage to the base's infrastructure. Colombian military officials attribute the assault to the ELN's strategy of pressuring the government amid stalled peace negotiations following the expiration of a ceasefire in August. Admiral Francisco Cubides emphasized that the attack not only targets military personnel but also threatens civilian safety due to its proximity to residential areas. The ELN, which has a longstanding presence in Arauca, is known for financing its operations through illegal activities such as drug trafficking. The Colombian government is reinforcing military presence in the region to restore order and respond to the escalation of violence by the ELN.