Colombia: 33 Soldiers Released After Three-Day Kidnapping

AUG 29·UPDATED AUG 29

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Above: Colombian President Gustavo Petro and his defense minister, Pedro Sánchez, on March 11, 2025. Image copyright: Raul Arboleda/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Government-critical narrative

This latest kidnapping shows that President Gustavo Petro's so-called Total Peace policy has been an absolute disaster, not only failing to bring peace but also empowering criminal groups. Premature ceasefires allowed armed organizations to expand while the state dismantled its offensive capabilities. Three years of negotiations have only resulted in more violence.

Colombia One

Pro-government narrative

The peace process faces legitimate challenges but has achieved important successes in reintegrating former fighters and implementing land reforms. Violence surged due to state absence in remote areas and competition over drug profits, not because of dialogue efforts. Long-term conflicts require sustained commitment beyond one presidential term.

The New Humanitarian

Metaculus Prediction

Editor's Note

This story currently has limited reporting from right-wing sources. We will continue to monitor all major outlets and update our coverage as additional perspectives become available.