The United States' global campaign to combat terrorism is extending to Colombia in the form of financial support and training to counter the three conflicting groups recently added to the U.S. terrorism list. The FARC and ELN guerrilla groups together with the AUC paramilitaries have been dubbed by the U.S. as terrorist organizations and, according to the U.S. ambassador to Colombia, a hardline approach will be taken against them as the U.S. seeks to toughen its anti-terrorism stance within an international context, going beyond the immediate campaign against Osama Bin Laden. The U.S. will train and equip elite anti-kidnapping and bomb squads, assist civilian and military terrorism investigators and help Colombia guard its oil pipelines. There is also a renewed push for extradition to the U.S. of criminal elements from these various organizations. President Bush and Colombian President Pastrana will meet November 11, 2001 to discuss the situation.

News Stories:

"US expands support for Colombia"
BBC, October 29, 2001

"US Sees Role in Colombia on Terror"
Associated Press, October 29, 2001

"U.S. Unveils Plan to Seek Custody of Colombia Rebels"
Los Angeles Times, October 25, 2001

"Será el 11 de noviembre en Nueva York: Nuevo encuentro Pastrana - Bus"
El Colombiano, (Colombia), October 29, 2001