Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep sorrow over the surge of violence in southwestern Colombia, calling on all sides to reject violence and choose peace.
Speaking during his Wednesday general audience, Pope addressed Spanish speaking pilgrims and reflected on the worsening situation in the region. He said he was following the events with concern and sadness as attacks continue to claim lives.
“I express my closeness in prayer to the victims and their families,” Pope said, urging everyone to firmly turn away from violence and work towards peace.
The latest wave of attacks comes as Colombia prepares for its presidential election on May 31. Authorities say at least 26 attacks have been carried out since April 24, targeting civilians and military bases. Dozens of people have been killed.
The violence has been linked to FARC-EMC, a breakaway faction of the former FARC rebel movement, which had signed a peace agreement with the government in 2016.
One of the deadliest incidents happened on Saturday, when a bomb exploded on a highway between Cali and Popayan, killing 21 people.
Security analysts believe the group is trying to show its strength ahead of the elections and gain influence over the next government. The faction is led by Nestor Vera, who rejected the 2016 peace deal.
The rebels are active in areas such as Cauca and Valle del Cauca, where they are fighting to control drug trafficking routes and illegal gold mining operations. Reports say they have used drones and car bombs, carried out kidnappings, and imposed illegal taxes on local communities.
Although peace talks between the group and the government began in late 2023, a section of the rebels walked away from negotiations in April 2024 and resumed armed attacks.
As the country faces growing uncertainty, Pope’s message highlighted the urgent need for peace and solidarity with those affected by the violence.