Concerns raised Over Potential Colombia–Venezuela Intelligence Sharing
A key concern regarding the Colombian government’s proposal to share military intelligence wiht Venezuela centers on the potential for that information to fall into the hands of armed groups operating in both countries. according to an academic source,there’s no guarantee that intelligence shared with the Venezuelan army won’t be accessed by the ELN or other Colombian criminal organizations active within Venezuelan territory,such as the Second Marquetalia.
This lack of assurance raises questions about the legitimacy of any such agreement.The academic argued that without clarity and democratic support, the agreements would be “viciated” and lack the impact of an accord reached with a government demonstrably committed to combating illegal armed groups.
The source further explained that Venezuela,”from Chávez,” has historically allowed armed groups to move freely across the Colombian-Venezuelan border,particularly in the departments of Santander,Arauca,and Meta,effectively “contaminating” any intelligence exchange with the interests of the current regime.
Political scientist and Doctor in Political Science and International Relations, Socorro Ramírez, highlighted a critical omission in discussions between the two governments: “the situation of the colombians arbitrarily detained by the Venezuelan regime. That issue has not been put on the table by either of the two governments.”
Laura Bonilla, a researcher at the Peace and reconciliation Foundation, suggested the proposal may be more of a gesture towards the united States than a genuine strategic plan, stating it doesn’t appear to be a ”structured presidential order, with a clear monitoring plan.”
Another political scientist and professor at the Eduardo Pizarro Leongómez National University cautioned against the exchange of sensitive information given the current circumstances. While Colombia should avoid supporting potential U.S. intervention in Venezuela, the professor argued that an intelligence exchange is currently detrimental to national security.
This report is based on information published by *El Nacional, a member of the GDA network of leading media outlets in Latin America.*
