Petro Responds to Criticism on Child Rebel Recruit Killings in Colombia

Bogota, Colombia – Eight underage recruits were killed during a military offensive against armed groups, raising concerns over child recruitment in Colombia. President Gustavo Petro confirmed the deaths, attributing them to forced recruitment by criminal organizations, as statistics show a 1,000% increase in child recruits since 2021. The government faces backlash for potential violations of international law, with calls for accountability from lawmakers. Experts emphasize that child recruits are protected under international law and urge the government to consider their safety in military actions.