Colombian ELN rebels agree to halt violence ahead of ceasefire

Colombia’s government and the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels agreed to halt violent actions against each other before the beginning of the ceasefire agreement in August, officials said. 

"From 00 hour on July 6 until 00 hours on August 3, 2023, the structures of the National Liberation Army should stop all offensive military action against the armed forces and the police in all national territory, including intelligence efforts," the ELN said in a statement posted to its website on Tuesday.

However, the group added it will continue to respond to any attacks or threats that are carried out against its members. 

Colombia’s high peace commissioner, Danielo Rueda, said that President Gustavo Petro is expected to make a similar announcement giving orders to the country’s military to “cease all offensive actions.” 

The National Liberation Army (ELN) has been engaging in peace negotiations with the government since last year after Petro vowed to end the decades-long armed conflict that has left more than 450,000 dead.

In June, Petro’s government and the guerilla group agreed to a full bilateral crease fire, set to begin on August 3 and last for six months. Both sides have pledged to hold further negotiations in Venezuela beginning in August. 

“This effort to look for peace is a light of hope that conflicts can be solved politically and diplomatically,” top ELN negotiator Pablo Beltrán said at the signing ceremony.

There are more than 17,600 individuals that belong to Colombia’s four major armed groups and 23 gangs operating in major cities, according to two security reports released in April.

The ELN, one of the largest armed groups in the country, is estimated to have around 5,850 members—2,900 combatants and 2,950 of which are part of its support network.