Skip to content

United States senator Rubio commits to providing aid to Ecuador, aiming to engage in a battle against criminal bands labeled as terrorists

Enhancement of Ecuador's anti-drug cartel efforts receives boost with $20 million in security assistance and drone deployment.

U.S. Senator Rubio commits to providing assistance to Ecuador, vowing to engage in a military-like...
U.S. Senator Rubio commits to providing assistance to Ecuador, vowing to engage in a military-like confrontation against gangs identified as terrorist organizations

United States senator Rubio commits to providing aid to Ecuador, aiming to engage in a battle against criminal bands labeled as terrorists

In a significant move, the United States has designated the Ecuadorian gangs Los Lobos and Los Choneros as foreign terrorist organizations in August 2023. This designation, announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, marks a shift in the US approach towards dealing with these gangs and could have broader implications for the region's fight against organized crime.

The designation comes as Ecuador, under President Daniel Noboa, has transformed from one of Latin America's safest countries to one of its most dangerous. In a bid to combat the rising violence, President Noboa has deployed troops, and recently, he met with Secretary Rubio in the centuries-old palace in Quito's old city to discuss security aid and cooperation.

Rubio, in his announcement, referred to Los Lobos and Los Choneros as "vicious animals" and "terrorists". He stated that the US is assisting Ecuador in waging war against these gangs, implying a more aggressive stance against organized crime in the country.

The US security aid to Ecuador includes $6 million for drones, a significant investment in technology to aid the fight against these gangs. The total amount of security aid promised by the US to Ecuador is nearly $20 million.

The designation of these gangs could potentially impact the activities and operations of Los Lobos and Los Choneros within Ecuador. The US is likely to take active measures against these groups, a move that could escalate the US involvement in Ecuador's internal security matters.

Rubio's statement also implies a shift in the US approach towards dealing with these gangs. The US strike was on a boat allegedly linked to Venezuela, suggesting a broader regional fight against criminals. The designation could signal a more aggressive stance against organized crime not only in Ecuador but in the region as a whole.

This designation could have far-reaching consequences. It could potentially change the dynamics of the fight against organized crime in Ecuador and the wider region. As the US and Ecuador work together to combat these gangs, the hope is for a safer and more secure future for the people of Ecuador.

Read also:

Latest