Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez has pledged to confront ELN guerrillas with full force to reestablish territorial control, addressing a conflict that has displaced many. Sanchez labeled the group as a narco-criminal entity and outlined plans to regain areas under their control, despite acknowledging the complexity of these efforts.
On Sunday, Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasized the military’s intent to confront the leftist insurgency near the Venezuelan border with “full force.” In a statement to the Agence France-Presse (AFP), he expressed the urgent need to regain territorial control as a response to the ELN guerrilla group’s activities that have displaced around 56,000 people.
Sanchez characterized the ELN as a “narco-criminal group” and asserted that their threat would be met with the state’s legitimate force to protect the Colombian populace. In light of recent remarks by ELN commanders regarding a potential escalation into total war, Sanchez remains determined to implement counteroffensive measures.
Moreover, Sanchez highlighted plans to reclaim a significant coca-growing area in southern Colombia, presently dominated by the Estado Mayor Central (Central General Staff). He acknowledged the complexities involved in retaking this territory, referring to it as a “wicked problem,” but remained optimistic about eventual success, emphasizing the potential for sacrifices along the way.
In conclusion, Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez’s commitment to countering the ELN guerrilla presence near Colombia’s border with Venezuela underscores the government’s determination to restore territorial control. His statements reflect a broader strategy aimed at dismantling what he perceives as narco-criminal influence while expressing hope for success despite the challenges ahead.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
