Colombia’s main guerrilla group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), has announced a unilateral ceasefire for the Christmas holidays, although it leaves up in the air possible actions in case the guerrillas feel «attacked».
The measure, similar to that adopted on other occasions, will be in force from 6:00 a.m. next Saturday, December 24, until the morning of January 2, with a view to building «an atmosphere of peace». Peace, he added in a statement, «requires more than words», according to Caracol Radio.
The government of Gustavo Petro has initiated a dialogue with the ELN in order to seek what has been called «total peace», after the previous administration, led by Iván Duque, had given up this type of contacts due to the guerrilla’s alleged lack of commitments.
The ELN, however, has also pointed out on this occasion that its ceasefire is not unconditional and has asked the Armed Forces to cease attacks also during the coming weeks, «in tune with the policies of the new government». «We reserve the right to defend ourselves in case we are attacked,» he warned.
The parties have already held a first round of negotiations in Venezuela, to be followed by a second in Mexico on a date yet to be finalized. Both countries are, together with Norway, guarantors of this peace process.
Source: (EUROPA PRESS)
