Venezuela Crisis Sparks Concern in Colombia

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 2nd 2026 at 6:36 GMT by Seattle Times
      Locales: VENEZUELA, COLOMBIA, UNITED STATES

Bogota, Colombia - February 2nd, 2026 - The already volatile situation in Venezuela has triggered a wave of concern and reactive statements from armed groups within neighboring Colombia. Following escalating US intervention, several Colombian rebel organizations - most notably the National Liberation Army (ELN) - are now calling for a comprehensive national accord to address the deepening political and humanitarian crisis unfolding in Venezuela. This demand, while framed as a plea for Venezuelan self-determination, reveals a complex web of regional anxieties surrounding foreign influence and the potential for widespread instability.

The ELN, considered the last significant armed rebel group still actively operating within Colombia, issued a strongly-worded statement late last week, urging a "great national accord" within Venezuela. The statement explicitly condemns what it terms the "interference of foreign governments," singling out the United States for particular criticism. "We strongly denounce the actions of the United States in Venezuela," the ELN's communique read. "We believe Venezuelans must find a peaceful and sovereign solution to this crisis, free from external coercion."

This sentiment isn't isolated to the ELN. Several other smaller rebel groups, remnants of Colombia's decades-long internal conflict, have echoed similar calls, expressing sharp disapproval of the US involvement. Analysts suggest this unified criticism stems from a long-held perception of the US as an imperialistic power intent on exerting control over Latin American affairs. This historical context fuels their belief that US intervention will not solve Venezuela's problems, but rather exacerbate them, potentially destabilizing the entire region.

The US has officially recognized Juan Guaido as Venezuela's interim president since 2019, a move which has further polarized the situation. Despite this recognition, Nicolas Maduro remains in power, backed by significant military and economic support from nations like Russia and Cuba. This creates a deeply fractured political landscape, rendering any genuine dialogue exceedingly difficult.

The ELN's call for a national accord, however, feels more complicated than simple anti-imperialist rhetoric. The group has a history of operating within Venezuelan territory, utilizing it as a sanctuary and a source of funding through illicit activities. A collapse of the current Venezuelan state, or a prolonged period of intense conflict, would undoubtedly disrupt these established networks, impacting the ELN's operational capacity. Therefore, their plea for stability can be interpreted as, at least in part, a self-preservation strategy.

Negotiations between the ELN and the Colombian government have been on-and-off for years, consistently hampered by mistrust and escalating violence. While periods of positive engagement have occurred, they have ultimately failed to yield a lasting peace agreement. The ELN continues to launch attacks targeting Colombian security forces, infrastructure, and, tragically, civilians. Both Colombia and the United States have designated the ELN as a terrorist organization, further complicating any potential diplomatic solutions.

The current Venezuelan crisis throws another wrench into already fragile peace prospects. The Colombian government, grappling with its own internal challenges and the lingering effects of a decades-long civil war, is understandably wary of further regional destabilization. Increased Venezuelan refugees fleeing conflict and economic hardship already strain Colombia's resources and social services. A full-scale conflict would likely trigger a massive humanitarian crisis, overwhelming Colombia's ability to cope.

Experts predict that the US intervention, while intended to support democratic forces, risks further fragmenting Venezuela and creating a power vacuum that could be exploited by various armed groups, including those operating across the Colombian border. This could lead to a surge in illegal activities, such as drug trafficking and arms smuggling, and a corresponding increase in violence in both countries. The ELN, and other rebel groups, could attempt to capitalize on the chaos, expanding their influence and control.

The demand for a "national accord" in Venezuela, therefore, is not merely an expression of political solidarity. It is a multifaceted response rooted in historical grievances, self-preservation, and a deep-seated fear of regional instability. The situation underscores the intricate web of connections between Colombia and Venezuela, and the urgent need for a comprehensive regional strategy that addresses the root causes of the crisis and prioritizes peaceful dialogue over military intervention.