They killed El Ruso, the leader of the Mordisco dissident movement.

Colombia faces a complex security landscape under the leadership of President Abelardo De La Espriella, who has taken office amid persistent challenges related to organized crime, illegal mining, and corruption. The country, which once teetered on the brink of collapse during the presidency of Álvaro Uribe Vélez in 2002, continues to grapple with deep-rooted issues that have persisted despite decades of efforts to restore stability. Today, more than 24 years later, the new administration inherits a nation where over 300,000 hectares remain planted with coca, and more than 28,000 armed individuals are part of criminal organizations. These groups operate in over 800 municipalities, effectively replacing state authority in many regions, imposing their own rules, controlling local economies, and enforcing threats against communities. Illegal mining serves as a stark example of institutional decay. In Antioquia alone, illicit mineral extraction generates nearly six million dollars per day in criminal profits. This illegal economy fuels armed structures, destroys ecosystems, and displaces legitimate mining activities. According to the General Comptroller’s Office, approximately 85 percent of gold produced in the country originates from illegal sources, highlighting the scale of the problem. The new government must address these systemic failures while restoring public trust and ensuring that state institutions regain their rightful place in society. President De La Espriella has emphasized the need for a firm, democratic exercise of authority, positioning security as essential for attracting investment, creating jobs, and returning peace to citizens. His administration aims to implement decisive measures against drug trafficking, strengthen eradication efforts, pursue the financial networks of organized crime, and confront illegal resource exploitation through legal means. To achieve this, the president has called for coordination among military forces, police, the Attorney General’s Office, intelligence agencies, and local authorities. Strategic partnerships with countries such as the United States and Israel could play a crucial role in enhancing national capabilities in intelligence and counterterrorism. In a recent operation, Colombian military forces successfully eliminated Hernando Forero Mosquera, known as “El Ruso,” a key leader of the 28th front of the FARC dissidents associated with “Iván Mordisco.” The operation took place in Meta, near Mapiripán, where Forero was found traveling toward Guaviare. According to reports, “El Ruso” had been operating primarily in Arauca but was intercepted in Meta. The military claims that he was linked to “Antonio Medina,” another prominent figure within the FARC dissident groups based in the Orinoco region. The president announced that three other members of the group were also neutralized during the operation, which was ordered to disrupt conflicts between different factions over territorial control. Forero, known for his expertise in explosives, had been deployed from Arauca to Meta, near the border of Guaviare and Vichada, to serve as the main commander of the 28th front. Reports suggest he was preparing to take charge of another structure, the 39th front, which operates in Meta and Guaviare. His involvement included coordinating attacks using improvised explosive devices and drones against military units, police stations, and labor union offices. Under his command, the group maintained logistical corridors connecting Arauca, Casanare, Guaviare, and Meta, overseeing supply chains, movement of resources, and personnel for the dissident groups. The political landscape has shifted since the previous administration, particularly following the breakdown of negotiations between the government led by Gustavo Petro and the FARC dissidents. After “Mordisco” withdrew from dialogue tables in 2024, tensions escalated, leading to renewed hostilities. While “Calarcá” gained strength through periods of ceasefire and improved offensive tactics, “Mordisco” struggled to maintain its dominance in the Guaviare region. The military has intensified pressure on both groups, aiming to reclaim territory and reduce the influence of armed actors in the area. President De La Espriella has reaffirmed his commitment to a hardline approach, stating that there will be no tolerance for criminals hiding from the state. He has instructed security forces to conduct all necessary operations, emphasizing that the era of leniency is over. His speech during his inauguration underscored the importance of reasserting state authority, announcing plans to publish a list of “narco-terrorist” groups and declaring that dialogue options have been exhausted. The president has also criticized past administrations for failing to uphold democratic principles and transparency, stressing that future governance must be rooted in accountability and public engagement. As the new administration begins, the challenge remains formidable. Political opposition is expected to be robust, and the path forward will require sustained effort, strategic alliances, and unwavering resolve to tackle the multifaceted crisis facing Colombia.