Colombia’s ELN Declares Christmas Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrillas announced a holiday truce. The unilateral ceasefire will run from December 24 to January 3. The group ordered all members to halt offensive operations against state forces.

This move marks a sudden shift in posture. It comes just days after a deadly drone attack on a military base. According to reports from Reuters, the announcement offers a fragile respite during the festive season.

Ceasefire Follows Deadly Week of Attacks

The ceasefire announcement follows significant violence. On Thursday night, the ELN attacked a rural military outpost in Aguachica. The assault used drones and explosives near the Venezuelan border.

Seven soldiers were killed. Thirty more were injured. This was the second major clash in a week. Two police officers were killed in the city of Cali just days earlier.

These incidents had heightened fears of escalating conflict. The ELN’s sudden pledge to stand down is seen as a tactical pause. The group controls key drug-trafficking regions in Colombia.

Broader Political Context Stalls Peace Talks

The truce occurs amidst stalled peace negotiations. Talks between the ELN and President Gustavo Petro’s government have been frozen since last year. Recent comments from U.S. political figures have further inflamed tensions.

The ELN recently vowed to defend Colombia from perceived U.S. threats. It declared civilian lockdowns in areas under its control last week. The group also issued threats against law enforcement.

Analysts suggest the holiday ceasefire may be a strategic gesture. It could be an attempt to manage domestic and international pressure. However, long-term peace remains elusive without a renewed dialogue.

The announced ELN ceasefire provides a temporary halt in hostilities. It offers a brief window of calm for conflict-affected communities. The coming weeks will test whether this pause can lead to more substantive talks.

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What is the ELN in Colombia?

The ELN, or National Liberation Army, is a leftist guerrilla group. It was founded in 1964 and is inspired by the Cuban revolution. It is the oldest surviving insurgent group in the Americas.

How long will the ELN ceasefire last?

The unilateral ceasefire is scheduled for eleven days. It begins on December 24, 2025. It is set to end on January 3, 2026.

Why did the ELN announce this truce?

The group did not specify a reason beyond the holiday period. The announcement follows intense military clashes and rising political tensions. It may be a tactical pause for strategic or reputational reasons.

Are peace talks with the ELN ongoing?

No, formal negotiations have been stalled for over a year. The government of President Gustavo Petro has struggled to restart the dialogue. The recent violence had created a major obstacle to any new talks.

How powerful is the ELN today?

The group remains a significant armed actor. It is estimated to operate in over 20% of Colombia’s municipalities. It derives power from controlling cocaine production and trafficking routes.

What has been the local reaction to the ceasefire?

Colombia’s human rights ombudsman welcomed the news with “relief, but also with anguish.” She noted the ELN’s actions have caused sustained damage to civilians. She also called for the truce to extend to hostilities with other armed groups.