Colombia’s Just War on Its Own Terrorists
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The United States must support the belated decision by President Andres Pastrana of Colombia to recognize guerrillas as terrorists and help put a stop to 40 years of terrorism there (“Colombia’s Patience Ends,” editorial, Feb. 22). Many Americans and Europeans have been killed along with the Colombian soldiers, police officers and civilians who have died at the hands of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and the National Liberation Army.
Until Pastrana decided to take overdue action, the guerrillas were protected by the Colombian government and granted a safe haven for their operations while civic-minded and decent citizens endured extortion, kidnappings and assassinations perpetrated by the guerrillas. One of the key issues that has tied Pastrana’s hands is that the international community, especially Europe, sees the FARC as a legitimate political force.
World leaders and human rights organizations must recognize that Colombia’s guerrillas are not honorable people who want peace. They use drug money to buy sophisticated weapons, hijack airplanes and blow up buildings, oil pipelines, electric towers and water systems. They thrive on lawlessness and will continue fostering war in order to survive.
Clara Potes-Fellow
El Monte
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