Meaning: The quote you provided is from Alma Guillermoprieto, a respected journalist known for her coverage of Latin America. In this quote, Guillermoprieto is discussing the relationship between drug traffickers, tax money, and guerrilla groups in Colombia. She suggests that the left-leaning guerrillas in Colombia have been able to survive for 40 years due to the funding they receive from drug traffickers, providing them with a solid source of income.

Guillermoprieto's statement sheds light on the complex and intertwined nature of politics, drug trafficking, and armed conflict in Colombia. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical and social context of Colombia, as well as the dynamics of guerrilla warfare and drug trafficking in the country.

Colombia has been plagued by internal armed conflict for decades, with various insurgent groups, including the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the National Liberation Army (ELN), challenging the government's authority. These guerrilla groups have been involved in a protracted struggle for power, often resorting to violence and illegal means to finance their activities.

One of the key factors fueling the endurance of these guerrilla groups has been their ability to generate income from drug trafficking. Colombia has long been a major producer of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine, and the trade has been a lucrative source of revenue for armed groups. The involvement of guerrillas in the drug trade has provided them with the financial resources needed to sustain their insurgency and resist government efforts to eradicate them.

Guillermoprieto's assertion that the left-leaning guerrillas in Colombia have been funded primarily by drug traffickers highlights the complex nexus between political ideology, criminal enterprises, and armed conflict. It underscores the entanglement of illegal activities and ideological motivations in the context of Colombia's protracted conflict.

Moreover, her statement raises important questions about the complicity and accountability of various actors in perpetuating the cycle of violence and instability in Colombia. It underscores the challenges faced by the Colombian government and international community in addressing the multifaceted nature of the conflict, which encompasses not only political and ideological dimensions but also criminal and economic aspects.

In conclusion, Alma Guillermoprieto's quote provides valuable insight into the intricate dynamics of guerrilla warfare, drug trafficking, and political funding in Colombia. It underscores the enduring influence of illegal activities on the country's internal conflict and highlights the complex interplay between ideology, finance, and violence. Understanding the implications of her statement requires a nuanced understanding of Colombia's history, social dynamics, and the multifaceted nature of its protracted conflict.