Héctor Abad Faciolince grew up in what had been one of the most violent cities on earth.
Since Colombia won its independence more than 200 years ago, it has weathered political unrest, military crackdowns and violent drug cartels.
His own father, who had accused the military of sponsoring death squads, was assassinated in 1987 by paramilitary forces that had turned his hometown, Medellín, into a war zone.
But his brush with death came half a world away.
At least 13 people were killed, including their guide, the Ukrainian writer Victoria Amelina.
Persons:
Héctor Abad Faciolince, Victoria Amelina
Organizations:
Colombia, Russia
Locations:
Medellín, South America, Ukrainian