Colombia's government has halted peace talks with the rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN) following an attack on a military base which left two soldiers dead and more than two dozen injured.

Government negotiators said the peace process is on hold because its viability is severely diminished and its continuation can only go ahead with a clear demonstration of peace by the ELN.

Colombia's President, GUSTAVO PETRO also said the attack practically closes a peace process, with blood.

The suspension of peace talks suggests the reissue of arrest warrants for the guerrilla group's top commanders who, according to the government, are currently based in Venezuela and Cuba.