In addition to ending ELN kidnappings and extortion of Venezuelans, it also reduces the threat to Venezuela's oil infrastructure in the western part of the country. There will doubtless be speculation that Chavez and the ELN cut a deal. Chavez himself has long been reported to have connections to Colombian guerrillas and has repeatedly expressed his desire to meet with the rebels. How the ELN benefits is less obvious. The d tente, however, will likely result in relaxed security along the Venezuelan-Colombian border.
Rebels use the remote area between Panama and Venezuela to smuggle weapons and other equipment.
Relaxed border security would therefore allow the ELN more freedom for smuggling operations. It would also make it easier for ELN members to escape across the border. More radically, and less likely, the ELN could also set up training and hideaway camps in Venezuelan territory. The ELN's decision is likely based on self-interest. By promising to end operations in Venezuela, the ELN hopes to gain breathing space through decreased border security.