Colombian Soldiers Injured in ELN Attack; Airlifted to Medellín

Four Colombian Soldiers Injured in ELN Attack, Airlifted to Medellín Valdivia, Antioquia, Colombia – June 2, 2025 – Four Colombian soldiers sustained injuries in an attack carried out by suspected members of the National Liberation Army (ELN) in the municipality of Valdivia, Antioquia, earlier today. The soldiers were providing security to civilians returning to their homes amidst ongoing displacement caused by armed conflict. "The soldiers were attacked with grenades and rifle fire," reported Érika Zapata, a Noticias Caracol reporter on the scene in Medellín. "Three of the injured soldiers are currently receiving treatment at the military hospital here in the city." In response to the attack, a Colombian Air Force helicopter, along with another providing air support, promptly airlifted the wounded soldiers to Medellín for emergency medical care. Captain Michael Valencia, a pilot with the Colombian Air Force, described the challenging conditions of the rescue mission. Authorities believe the ELN was responsible for the attack and are investigating the incident. The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of approximately 300 people from Valdivia. The Colombian army remains in the region to ensure the safety of the civilian population. The condition of the injured soldiers is currently unknown, but their swift evacuation offers a glimmer of hope for their recovery.