What's happened
Recent attacks in Colombia, including a police helicopter downed by a drone and a vehicle bomb, have been blamed on dissident factions of FARC and drug cartels. These incidents highlight ongoing instability amid President Petro's peace negotiations, with violence likely to increase ahead of next year's elections.
What's behind the headline?
The recent attacks underscore the limitations of Petro’s 'total peace' strategy, which has failed to disarm or fully integrate dissident factions. The use of drones and sophisticated explosives indicates a shift towards more technologically advanced insurgency tactics, challenging state dominance in rural areas. These incidents also reveal the strategic importance of coca cultivation zones, which remain contested and heavily influenced by illegal armed groups. The government’s labeling of these groups as terrorists signals a potential escalation in military response, but the ongoing violence suggests that peace remains elusive. The upcoming elections are likely to intensify these conflicts, as rebel factions seek to assert their influence and undermine state authority. The rise in coca cultivation, record levels of drug trafficking, and increased violence threaten to destabilize Colombia further, with regional and international implications.
What the papers say
The Independent reports on the recent attacks, emphasizing the use of drones and modern warfare technology by dissident factions of FARC and drug traffickers. Al Jazeera highlights the political context, including President Petro’s blame on dissidents and drug cartels, and details the specific incidents in Cali and Antioquia. Both sources agree on the escalation of violence and the strategic challenges faced by the government, though The Independent focuses more on the security implications, while Al Jazeera provides broader political analysis. The articles collectively illustrate the complex security landscape in Colombia, where peace negotiations are strained by persistent armed resistance and evolving tactics.
How we got here
Since the 2016 peace deal, Colombia has seen a rise in dissident groups rejecting the agreement, leading to increased violence. The government’s strategy of negotiating with multiple illegal groups has allowed some factions to strengthen control over territories, especially in coca-growing regions. The rise in coca cultivation and the use of modern warfare technology by insurgents, such as drones, have further complicated security efforts.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why is Colombia experiencing increased violence right now?
Recent events in Colombia, including vehicle bombs and drone attacks, have raised concerns about rising violence in the country. The violence is linked to ongoing conflicts involving dissident FARC factions and drug cartels, with authorities and President Petro actively responding. If you're wondering what's driving this unrest and who is involved, read on to understand the key factors behind Colombia's current crisis.
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Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego is a Colombian politician, ex guerrilla member and a presidential candidate who previously served as mayor of Bogotá. A left-wing politician, Petro was a member of the revolutionary group M-19 in the 1980s.
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