Colombian Rebels Launch Devastating Drone Attack, Killing 7 Soldiers Near Venezuela Border

A devastating drone attack by Colombia's ELN guerrilla group on a military base near the Venezuela border has left seven soldiers dead and at least 30 injured, in the second deadly clash with security forces in a week. The Thursday night assault, which involved drones and explosives, has sparked widespread condemnation from Colombian authorities.

According to The Guardian, the ELN, a 60-year-old guerrilla group, has long controlled key drug-producing regions in Colombia, despite repeated efforts to negotiate a peace settlement. Founded in 1964 and inspired by the Cuban revolution, the ELN is the oldest surviving guerrilla group in the Americas.

The attack, which occurred on Thursday night, was carried out using drones and explosives, and has been described as a "cowardly act" by Colombian authorities. "We condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms," said a spokesperson for the Colombian military. "Our soldiers were simply doing their job, and this attack is a clear example of the ELN's disregard for human life."

The ELN has a long history of violence in Colombia, and has been responsible for numerous attacks on security forces and civilians. Despite efforts to negotiate a peace settlement, the group has continued to operate in the country, controlling key regions and producing large quantities of cocaine.

The attack has sparked widespread concern in Colombia, with many calling for increased security measures to protect against future attacks. "This attack is a wake-up call for the Colombian government," said a spokesperson for a human rights group. "We need to see increased action to protect our soldiers and civilians from these types of attacks."

The ELN has been involved in a number of high-profile attacks in recent years, including a 2019 bombing that killed 22 people in the city of Bogota. The group has also been linked to a number of kidnappings and extortion schemes in the country.

The Colombian government has vowed to take action against the ELN, and has promised to increase security measures in the region. "We will not let the ELN get away with this attack," said a spokesperson for the Colombian president. "We will do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice."

As the situation continues to unfold, the Colombian government is working to provide support to the families of the soldiers who were killed in the attack. The incident has also raised concerns about the security situation in the region, and the potential for future attacks.

In a statement, the ELN claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that it was a response to the Colombian government's "aggressive" actions in the region. However, the group's statement has been met with skepticism by many, who see the attack as a clear example of the ELN's disregard for human life.

The incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges facing Colombia, and the need for increased action to protect against future attacks. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Colombian government and security forces will need to take a strong stance against the ELN in order to bring peace and stability to the region.