Ecuador and U.S. Strengthen Anti-Drug Alliance Amid Rising Crime Rates

The U.S. Southern Command has announced enhanced joint operations with Ecuadorian military forces to combat drug trafficking and criminal organizations labeled as terrorist groups by the U.S. State Department. This collaboration comes after a visit from U.S. Southern Command's chief, Francis Donovan, and Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa, who emphasized a new phase in the fight against narcotrafficking. Notably, from March 15 to 30, a curfew will be imposed in four provinces to facilitate military and police operations. The Ecuadorian government attributes the surge in crime to drug cartels moving cocaine through its ports, raising concerns about regional security and cooperation.

Key Details: • Joint operations will begin in March 2024, with a curfew from March 15 to 30 in four provinces. • Ecuador's President Noboa has prioritized national security and peace against drug-related violence. • The U.S. Southern Command has not confirmed the presence of American troops in these operations. • Recent drug trafficking networks have been dismantled with U.S. DEA support.