Colombia Conflict 2026

Colombia's 60-year armed conflict continues despite the 2016 FARC peace deal. FARC dissidents (EMC — Estado Mayor Central) rejected the peace deal and continue fighting. The ELN (Ejército de Liberación Nacional) is the other major guerrilla force. Both groups use drone warfare. President Petro's peace talks with ELN collapsed in 2025. Venezuelan Tren de Aragua cartel has expanded into Colombian territory. Over 400,000 people were newly displaced in 2025.

Background

Colombia's armed conflict dates to 1964 when FARC (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia) was founded as a Marxist-Leninist guerrilla group. The ELN formed the same year. At their peak in the 2000s, these groups controlled large swathes of Colombian territory. The US-funded Plan Colombia and military modernization significantly degraded them.

A historic peace deal was signed between the Colombian government and FARC in 2016. However, a significant dissident faction (EMC) rejected the deal and has continued armed operations, particularly in border regions. The ELN did not sign the deal.

Current Situation (March 2026)

President Gustavo Petro's "Total Peace" policy attempted to negotiate simultaneously with ELN, EMC, and criminal organizations. Talks with ELN collapsed in 2025. EMC has expanded operations in southern Colombia, the Pacific coast, and border regions with Venezuela and Ecuador. Both groups have adopted drone warfare. Venezuelan Tren de Aragua cartel has expanded into Colombian territory following Venezuela's political crisis.

Regional Hotspots

• South Colombia (EMC / FARC dissidents)CRITICAL — Putumayo, Caquetá
• Norte de Santander (ELN)CRITICAL — ELN stronghold, Venezuela border
• Pacific CoastHIGH — drug trafficking routes
• Arauca / CasanareMEDIUM — ELN / EMC clashes

Key Actors

ELN (Ejército de Liberación Nacional)

Cuba-influenced Marxist guerrilla group. Active in northeast Colombia and along the Venezuelan border. Conducts bombing campaigns, kidnappings, and extortion. Peace talks with Petro government collapsed in 2025.

EMC (Estado Mayor Central — FARC dissidents)

The largest FARC dissident faction. Rejected the 2016 peace deal. Controls significant rural territory in southern Colombia. More operationally sophisticated than ELN in drone use and tactical innovation.

Tren de Aragua

Venezuelan prison-origin criminal organization that has expanded massively across Latin America and into the US. Active in Colombian border regions. The Trump administration designated it as a terrorist organization.