Hundreds of former Colombian military personnel have reportedly been enlisted to strengthen the ranks of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This paramilitary organisation is currently facing severe accusations of egregious human rights violations. The revelation surfaces as the RSF is widely implicated in atrocities, including widespread sexual violence and the systematic killing of civilians during the ongoing Sudanese conflict. Simultaneously, Colombia itself is grappling with escalating domestic violence, as demonstrated by a recent lethal assault by the ELN guerrilla group.
The reported involvement of Colombian nationals in Sudan's brutal civil war appears to have been facilitated by a network connected to Zeuz Global, a company registered in the United Kingdom. The United States Treasury has consequently imposed sanctions on individuals identified as directors of this network, describing them as Colombian nationals residing in Britain. These sanctions, announced on December 9th, underscore the international scope of this mercenary operation. Allegations suggest that former Colombian soldiers were deployed to assist the RSF in significant military operations, including the capture of El Fasher, a crucial Sudanese city.
This disturbing trend of Colombian nationals participating in foreign conflicts occurs against a backdrop of persistent insecurity within Colombia itself. Only recently, the ELN, the South American nation's oldest surviving guerrilla faction, launched a sophisticated attack on a military installation near the Venezuelan border. Employing drones and explosive devices, the assault tragically resulted in the deaths of seven Colombian soldiers and left at least thirty more injured. The Defence Minister vehemently condemned the act, highlighting the ongoing fragility of peace negotiations.
The broader geopolitical context is further complicated by the United States' position on Colombia's persistent struggle with cocaine production. Colombia remains the world's foremost supplier of cocaine, and President Gustavo Petro has faced US sanctions for perceived insufficient action against drug-trafficking organisations. This diplomatic pressure adds another layer of complexity to Colombia's efforts to foster both domestic stability and international trust. The recent violence casts a long shadow over Colombia's aspirations for enduring peace and security.