U.S. Military Interventiuon in Colombia: Strategic and Operational Planning Considerations
Abstract
Colombia is on the verge of collapse because of the instability generated by leftist guerrilla groups, drug traffickers, and right-wing paramilitaries against the Colombian government and its ability to provide security for the people of the state. In the past twenty years, Colombia has experienced an escalated, internal conflict due to the synergy created between these three non-state actors, which have stymied attempts by the government and other international actors to find a peaceful solution. The deteriorating environment in Colombia has significant implications for the security and political environment of the region and the United States, especially in the aftermath of the September 11th 2001 attacks against the United States and subsequent War on Terrorism. This monograph focuses on the strategic and operational considerations for US military intervention in fighting the complex conflict in Colombia as a potential base-planning document, while also analyzing the necessity of greater unified military action-to include its possibility for success, in order to solve Colombia's narco-terrorist, insurgent threat. The purpose of analysis is to provide a strategic and operational context of the narco-paramilitary-insurgent problem in Colombia, by utilizing operational design to understand the complexities of the primary threats and provide a conceptual framework for future planning. The conclusion is that the scope of the conflict is beyond Colombia's capacity to cope with based upon the strategic aims and operational capabilities of the guerrillas, paramilitaries, and drug trade. Further, the Colombian government is failing because two critical elements necessary for democratic rule still do not exist, stability and security. Colombian strategy must change by developing political objectives and a military strategy aimed at restoring stability and security through an integrated effort by Colombia, its neighbors, and the United States.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA419834
Entities
People
- Bryan P. Hernandez
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College