CÚCUTA, Colombia, Jan 7, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Colombian guerrilla commanders who allegedly operated in Venezuela are fleeing following the US military operation in Caracas that ousted leader Nicolas Maduro, a source in the Colombian forces told AFP on Tuesday. Security experts say the ELN has rear bases within Venezuela that were tolerated by Maduro, who denied it. A Colombian armed forces officer told AFP on condition of anonymity Tuesday he had received reports of guerrilla leaders trying to cross the border back home after Washington's weekend raid. Trump had warned Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who he has accused without providing evidence of being a drug lord, to "watch his ass." In response, Petro -- a former urban guerrilla -- said he was willing to "take up arms" for "the homeland."

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 07, 2026 14:50 UTC