US, Ecuador launch joint anti-drug operation
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US, Ecuador launch joint anti-drug operation
"The operations are a powerful example of the commitment of partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to combat the scourge of narco-terrorism. Ecuador's Defense Ministry confirmed the operations were taking place, but did not share further classified details about the joint military efforts undertaken with SOUTHCOM."
"Ecuador is seen as a transit country for cocaine produced in neighboring Colombia and Peru, which is smuggled through ports into the US and Europe. The drug trade has also unleashed a violent turf war in Ecuador between rival smuggling groups competing for control of trafficking routes."
"Since right-wing Noboa came to power in 2023, the US and Ecuador have taken steps to boost security cooperation. Noboa's office said the meeting with SOUTHCOM officials included plans for information sharing and operational coordination at airports and seaports."
The United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) initiated joint operations with Ecuador to combat drug trafficking by designated terrorist organizations. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, a Trump ally, announced Ecuador is entering a new phase in fighting narco-terrorism following meetings with SOUTHCOM leadership in Quito. The operations include plans for information sharing and operational coordination at airports and seaports. Ecuador serves as a critical transit country for cocaine produced in Colombia and Peru, destined for US and European markets. The drug trade has fueled violent turf wars between rival smuggling groups within Ecuador. These joint efforts represent broader US initiatives to crack down on illicit drug production across Latin America and the Caribbean.
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