Colombia’s military will keep bombing illegal armed groups. Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed this policy on Wednesday. This follows recent airstrikes that killed at least 12 children and teenagers.

The decision marks a firm stance from President Gustavo Petro’s government. He had previously halted such operations. According to Reuters, the minister stated the attacks target legitimate military objectives.

Government Shifts Strategy Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Petro reinstated airstrikes last year. This was a major shift from his 2022 campaign promise. He set a condition that bombings must not cause casualties among recruited minors.

The recent operations hit FARC dissident factions in three provinces. These groups actively recruit children, often by force. Human rights organizations report these children are used as shields.

Petro apologized to the mothers of seven killed minors. Despite this, the offensive strategy will continue. The government blames armed groups for putting children in harm’s way.

Military Investment and International Tensions

Colombia is modernizing its air force capabilities. A recent deal with Saab secures 17 new Gripen fighter jets. This 3.1 billion euro purchase will replace aging Israeli Kfir aircraft.

Minister Sanchez called the procurement process transparent. Some opposition figures have questioned the deal’s cost. The new jets signify a long-term commitment to aerial campaigns.

Military cooperation with the United States remains strong. However, intelligence sharing is under scrutiny. Petro threatened to cancel it if data is used for bombing suspected drug-running vessels.

The Colombian government faces a difficult balance. Protecting national security sometimes leads to tragic collateral damage. The continued Colombia airstrikes policy underscores the persistent challenge of illegal armed groups recruiting minors, a cycle the state is determined to break through military force.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Why did Colombia resume airstrikes?

President Petro reinstated them last year after limited progress in peace talks. The strategy aims to dislodge FARC dissident groups that rejected the 2016 peace deal.

Q2: How many children have been recruited recently?

Data shows at least 625 children were recruited in 2024. From January to October this year, 162 more cases were registered by the Ombudsman’s Office.

Q3: What has been the international reaction?

It has caused friction, particularly with the U.S. regarding intelligence use. The government maintains its cooperation is strong but with clear conditions.

Q4: What is the dissident groups’ response?

Top leader Ivan Mordisco threatened a “revolutionary trial” against those responsible for the air attacks. This illegal practice could lead to death sentences.

জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।