Sat Jan 03 14:27:13 UTC 2026: Here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:
Headline: Colombia Braces for Fallout After US Removes Maduro in Venezuela
Medellin, Colombia – Colombia is on high alert following the stunning removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by the U.S. military. The Colombian government has condemned the U.S. action, mobilizing troops to secure its 1,378-mile border with Venezuela amid fears of increased violence and a potential mass influx of refugees.
President Gustavo Petro called the U.S. intervention an “attack on the sovereignty of Venezuela and Latin America” and has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.
Security analysts warn that the power vacuum in Venezuela could embolden the ELN, a left-wing rebel group heavily involved in cocaine trafficking that operates on both sides of the border. The ELN, which previously threatened action against “imperialist intervention,” may retaliate against Western targets in Colombia.
Colombia is also preparing for a potential surge of Venezuelan refugees. The country already hosts nearly 3 million Venezuelans and lacks funds due to the termination of USAID programs in the country.
The situation puts Petro in a difficult position, given his strained relationship with the Trump administration, which has accused him of illegal drug activities. While Petro has criticized Maduro in the past, he is now focused on defending national sovereignty. Humanitarian organizations are urging Colombia to proactively activate protection mechanisms and humanitarian corridors to prevent chaos and human rights violations at the border.
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