Chinese state-backed companies have significantly increased investments in Colombian infrastructure projects since trade deals were established between 2008 and 2019. These investments encompass critical sectors, including ports, highways, mining, energy, and public transportation systems like metro lines and light rail. Concerns arise from the secretive nature of these deals, the potential for Chinese companies to control vital infrastructure, and the influx of Chinese workers. Several projects have faced controversies involving corruption allegations, environmental concerns, labour disputes, and the sidelining of local engineering firms. These investments are reshaping Colombia's infrastructure landscape, fostering economic growth while simultaneously raising questions about sovereignty and transparency. The Colombian government is now reviewing the deals to renegotiate them in some situations.

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Colombia's war crimes tribunal (JEP) has indicted 39 army officials, including four generals, for their involvement in the extrajudicial killings of 442 civilians in Antioquia between 2004 and 2007. These killings were driven by a "body count policy" that incentivised soldiers to present civilians as guerrillas killed in combat. Commanders allegedly dismissed complaints about the killings, attributing them to guerrilla tactics The JEP highlighted that these executions occurred after guerrilla groups were strategically defeated, and paramilitary groups demobilised, with victims often lured with false promises of work or identified through cooperation with paramilitaries. The JEP stressed these actions violated existing government and military directives. Indicted officials now have the choice to accept the charges and participate in the JEP’s restorative justice system or face imprisonment.

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We examine Colombia's neutral stance three years into the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite officially remaining neutral under President Petro, the piece highlights the historical context of initial condemnation under previous leadership. It notes that approximately 2,000 Colombian mercenaries are fighting for Ukraine, often driven by economic hardship. The article acknowledges Petro's call for peaceful resolution but also mentions his criticism of Russia in specific circumstances, like civilian attacks. The piece concludes by emphasising the difficult situation of ex-military personnel in Colombia who take up mercenary work. Colombia has offered diplomatic resources to enable a “just peace” between the parties.

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