Over 80 people were killed in northeastern Colombia after peace negotiations with the National Liberation Army (ELN) collapsed. The violence, primarily in northern Santander state, also injured 20 and forced thousands to flee. Among the victims were community leaders and participants in peace talks. Defense Minister Iván Velázquez visited the region, emphasizing the safety of communities and announcing troop deployments. Evacuations and humanitarian aid efforts are underway, but local officials express concerns over the escalating conflict. The ELN, engaging in clashes with former FARC members, has called for armed conflict if attacks on civilians continue. Past attempts at negotiation with the ELN have faltered due to ongoing violence.
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Tragedy Strikes in Catatumbo as Peace Talks Collapse, Leaving 80 Dead
