

In the Venezuelan Amazon, particularly within the states of Bolivar and Amazonas, deforestation has surged alarmingly due to illegal mining, expanded agriculture, and wildfires. Reports from 2022 highlight that over 140,000 hectares of primary forest were lost between 2016 and 2020, driven by these activities. The situation is exacerbated by the presence of Colombian guerrillas, such as the ELN, who, with alleged support from the Venezuelan government, exploit these regions for mining and agriculture, severely impacting protected areas like Caura, Canaima, and Yapacana national parks. The illegal operations include the construction of runways for drug trafficking and mineral smuggling, contributing significantly to the region's deforestation. This criminal activity not only threatens biodiversity but also undermines the efforts of local communities engaged in sustainable agroforestry, further destabilizing the region.