Key Facts
• December 18: Guerrilla group attacked a military base in Cesar Department, Colombia.
• At least 7 soldiers killed and 30 injured, according to the Colombian military.
• Attackers used drones equipped with improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
• Soldiers were resting in hammocks after training when the attack occurred.
• Injured soldiers were transported to local medical facilities for treatment.
• Colombian Defense Minister condemned the attack, calling for the elimination of ELN threats.
• The National Liberation Army (ELN), designated a terrorist group by the U.S. and EU, is suspected.
• ELN declared nationwide armed attacks to protest U.S. “imperialist intervention.”
• Civilian movement and daily activities in ELN-controlled areas were disrupted.
Summary
On December 18, a guerrilla group, suspected to be the National Liberation Army (ELN), attacked a Colombian military base in Cesar Department using drones carrying improvised explosive devices. The assault left at least seven soldiers dead and 30 injured. The soldiers were reportedly resting after training when the attack occurred. The injured were transported to local medical facilities, while the military launched operations to secure the area. The ELN, designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and EU, had recently declared nationwide armed attacks in protest of perceived U.S. intervention. The Colombian Defense Minister condemned the attack, emphasizing the need to eliminate the ELN threat to protect civilians. The attack also caused significant disruptions to civilian movement and daily life in ELN-controlled regions.
