Colombian Air Strikes Target Guerrillas, Claim 20 Lives

In a significant military operation, the Colombian government announced the deaths of 20 alleged members of the Central General Staff (EMC) following air strikes in Guaviare on Monday. President Abelardo de la Espriella, who has taken a hardline stance against armed groups, confirmed the strikes via a video statement.

These attacks are part of a broader initiative by the new administration, which has intensified military actions against groups involved in drug trafficking and other illegal activities. Earlier air strikes in August reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least four minors, raising concerns among human rights organizations about the recruitment of youth by these armed factions.

The EMC, led by the notorious Ivan Mordisco, emerged from the remnants of the FARC after its peace deal in 2016. The U.S. government has pledged $1 billion in security assistance to bolster Colombia's efforts against these insurgent groups.

Source: www.france24.com