Military Bombings Target ELN and FARC in Catatumbo

On Wednesday, the Colombian military conducted bombing raids in the Catatumbo region, targeting the warring Marxist groups, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The operation, which was outlined by President Gustavo Petro on social media, resulted in the deaths of seven ELN members.

For over a year, ELN forces and the FARC’s 33rd Front have been engaged in a fierce confrontation over control of the coca crop, essential for cocaine production. This conflict erupted following the breakdown of an informal “non-aggression pact” between the two groups in early 2025, which had previously defined their territories and criminal influences in the region.

As reported by the United Nations, more than 100,000 people have been displaced from Catatumbo due to ongoing violence, equating to nearly half of the area’s population. In fact, clashes on Christmas Day 2025 alone forced over 250 Colombians from their homes.

President Petro announced on social media that the bombing raid killed seven ELN members, captured one, and recovered 12 rifles, mentioning that there were no minors present during the strike. He remarked, “There may be more wounded scattered among the group fleeing the area.”

Petro stated that three years prior, a peace initiative was offered to the ELN, yet they responded last year with the killing of 200 farmers in the Catatumbo region. He noted that this bombing was the 14th operation under his administration, although reports indicated it was the first time he ordered such action against the ELN since taking office.

This military operation followed a meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House. Historically known for his critical stance towards Trump, Petro had previously urged for Trump’s removal from power.

During their meeting, Petro emphasized that those who succumb to drug trafficking would face defeat. He provided Trump with a list of significant drug traffickers currently targeted by Colombian authorities, describing them as influential figures in Colombia’s drug trade.

Petro highlighted, “The drug lords I identified to Mr. Trump reside outside Colombia and are part of a global cocaine network. I called for enhanced collaboration among law enforcement and intelligence agencies worldwide to seize assets and capture them.” He also advocated for support for impoverished farmers to shift from coca to legal crops, criticizing the disparity between the luxuries enjoyed by drug lords and the hardships faced by farmers.

He reiterated, “Those who align with Colombia’s drug lords and reject peace will ultimately face the consequences of their involvement in violence.” With a note of urgency, he encouraged making choices that lead to peace for the broader benefit of Colombia.

According to Colombian newspapers, the bombing occurred in a rural section between El Tala and Tibou—an area that has recently witnessed clashes leading to the evacuation of more than 1,000 residents. The operation was executed in two phases: first utilizing artillery, followed by aerial bombings. Military intel had identified movements of both armed groups, but the operation was not specifically aimed at one group. Aiming to disrupt both factions, it was stated that the impact would likely be felt more by the ELN.

On Thursday morning, the National Institute of Forensic Medicine confirmed the reception of five bodies from the military actions in Catatumbo, initiating forensic tests for identification.