Members of the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), an armed group designated by the U.S. as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, have announced an “armed strike” in Colombia from Sunday, December 14 at 6AM to Wednesday, December 17 at 6AM. According to their announcement, civilians are advised to avoid traveling on roads and navigable rivers and to stay away from military groups during this period.
The ELN is reported to be most active in the northeast regions of Arauca and Norte de Santander (Catatumbo), as well as in Chocó in the west, and Cauca and Nariño in the southwest. The group also maintains strongholds along the Venezuela border and has a presence in Antioquia, Bolívar, and Valle del Cauca.
The U.S. State Department has reiterated its travel advisory for Colombia, warning citizens not to travel to Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), Norte de Santander departments, or areas near the Colombia-Venezuela border. Travelers are urged to reconsider visits to other regions of Colombia due to security concerns.
U.S. citizens currently in Colombia are advised: "Do not confront guerillas or armed individuals," "Maintain a high level of vigilance," "Be aware of your surroundings," "Keep a low profile," "Avoid crowds," and "Monitor local media for security updates."
For assistance or more information, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá by phone at +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000 or visit https://co.usembassy.gov/. The U.S. Consular Agency in Barranquilla can be reached at conagencybarranquilla@state.gov. Further details about safety recommendations and updates are available through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and official embassy social media channels.