Colombia: Country's last active guerrilla group ELN agrees truce

Colombia's government and the country's last active rebel group have agreed a truce - their latest step towards peace after almost 60 years of conflict.

The National Liberation Army (ELN) said it would stop fighting from Thursday, ahead of a full ceasefire in August.

Colombia's defence minister confirmed the armed forces would also be told to halt offensives from that time.

However, the ELN said it would defend itself from any attacks by the military or other armed groups.

The announcement comes after the six-month ceasefire was agreed last week. This is due to come into force on 3 August. read more