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U.S. and Ecuador Launch Joint Operations Against Designated Terrorist Groups

KVIA•Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 3:08 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced that U.S. and Ecuadorian military forces initiated joint operations in Ecuador targeting groups labeled as terrorists by the Trump administration. This collaboration aims to combat narcoterrorism and enhance regional security, with a focus on notorious criminal organizations like Los Lobos and Los Choneros, designated as foreign terrorist organizations in September 2025. Ecuador's Ministry of Defense emphasized its commitment to fighting organized crime alongside strategic allies. The announcement follows a meeting between Ecuadorian President Noboa and General Francis L. Donovan of SOUTHCOM, where they discussed strengthening cooperation against transnational crime and improving security measures at airports and ports.

Key Details: • Joint operations began on Tuesday, focusing on narcoterrorism. • Los Lobos and Los Choneros are identified as terrorist organizations. • Meeting between President Noboa and General Donovan aimed at enhancing security cooperation. • Ecuador's military emphasizes commitment to fighting organized crime.

military crime ecuador narcoterrorism us-ecuador-relations

People & Organizations

U.S. Southern CommandEcuadorQuitoFrancis L. DonovanNoboaMinistry of Defense of Ecuador

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