Intensity Level = High

Colombia has recently found itself in the midst of quite a heated controversy and conflict, and I assume that most of you have heard at least bits and pieces of the crazy events that have unfolded here within the last few days. It's really hard to know who to believe and anticipate what will happen, and the news reports are coming in at rapid speed. Basically, here's a quick summary: Last week, the FARC released four political figures who had been kidnapped and in captivity for six years, and this important step was made possible in part through the assistance of President Hugo Chavez (of Venezuela), who has constantly been involved in the process of negotiation with FARC leaders. All seemed to be going well-- as this was noted as great progress. However, on Saturday, Colombian military officials crossed 1.1 miles into Ecuador to kill Raúl Reyes (a top FARC leader) and 15 guerrillas. This has caused quite the reaction from Correa (president of Ecuador) and Chavez. Here's an article that gives a bit more of a summary of the various actions that have been taken:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/03/02/ap/world/main3898139.shtml . Things are constantly changing, and new facts are continually brought to the public eye. For instance, recent reports have declared that Reyes' computer contained proof that Chavez had given $300 million to FARC leaders, which has completely outraged Colombian President Uribe (who hopes to bring him to the international court). It is quite the crazy atmosphere; here's hoping that all gets resolved peacefully and quickly!