Florida lawmakers recently publicly criticized a wave of deadly explosions and attacks in Colombia aimed at government forces and infrastructure.
Local media reported car bombings, rifle fire, and even drone strikes aimed at police stations and government posts.
The attacks follow a recent murder attempt against presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay by anti-government forces.
Armed assailants belonging to local paramilitary organizations entered the park where the rally was taking place and shot Uribe from behind.
Colombia’s government has been fighting paramilitary groups, such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the National Liberation Army (ELN), for decades.
However, critics blame Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s policies as appeasing and emboldening the anti-government paramilitary groups - which he formerly formed part of - through negotiations and ceasefire deals.
South Florida Republican Representatives Maria Elvira-Salazar and Mario Diaz-Balart condemned the attacks and credited them to President Petro’s leniency towards the paramilitary groups.
“It is unfortunate and troubling,” said Representative Balart, “that the Colombian government appears to be reverting toward a quasi-failed state, jeopardizing the largely successful U.S.-Colombia relationship that has significantly contributed to the peace and prosperity of both the American and Colombian people.”
Echoing Balart’s sentiment, Representative Salazar called the attacks “alarming” and urged Petro to confront the guerillas.
“President Petro must act decisively to restore order, protect democratic institutions, and ensure the safety of all Colombians,” said Salazar.
Petro’s administration opted for peace negotiations and amicable relations with Colombia’s paramilitary groups, which the latest attacks have undermined.
Paradoxically, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED) group, Petro’s policy towards Colombia’s paramilitary groups has strengthened them as they have attracted recruits, amassed weaponry, and expanded their territorial control.
“Colombia is dangerously sliding back into the dark era of political violence,” warned Salazar.
