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Petro Rejects Halt to Airstrikes After 15 Child Recruits Killed as Censure Bid Targets Defense Chief

Petro insists the bombings comply with international humanitarian law despite mounting scrutiny.

Overview

  • The National Institute of Legal Medicine confirmed at least 15 minors died in four military operations between August and November in Guaviare, Amazonas and Arauca.
  • Ombudsman Iris Marín opened an investigation into possible breaches of proportionality and urged a suspension of airstrikes, saying the presence of minors does not justify attacks.
  • Petro apologized to the mothers of the dead children but defended the legality of the operations and ruled out suspending strikes during offensive actions by armed groups.
  • Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez said bombings will continue against FARC dissident forces, asserting the targets were legitimate under Colombian law and IHL.
  • Lawmakers filed a no-confidence motion against Sánchez as rights organizations pressed for rescue-focused strategies and officials reported sharp increases in child recruitment.