Rubio Defends US Military Actions Against Drug Traffickers in Ecuador

During a visit to Ecuador, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the controversial military strikes on suspected drug-trafficking boats, arguing that Latin American cartels would 'eat these countries alive' if not confronted. He praised a new generation of conservative leaders in the region who are aligned with President Donald Trump and willing to take aggressive action against criminal organizations.

Rubio stated that since Trump's return to power, the United States has intensified air strikes against vessels in known trafficking routes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, with Pentagon figures indicating that these operations have resulted in over 200 fatalities. He emphasized the need for continued military operations to disrupt drug trafficking routes.

While in Ecuador, Rubio announced the designation of the gang Los Tiguerones as a 'terrorist organization' and imposed sanctions on seven former Ecuadorian officials. He highlighted the severe violence in Ecuador, where over 25,000 people have been murdered in the last three years due to drug gang conflicts.

What we know

• Marco Rubio defended military strikes on drug-trafficking boats in Ecuador. Confirmed by www.scmp.com, www.thehindu.com
• The operations have reportedly killed more than 200 people. Confirmed by www.scmp.com, www.thehindu.com
• Rubio announced the designation of Los Tiguerones as a terrorist organization. Reported by www.thehindu.com
• Over 25,000 people have been murdered in Ecuador in the last three years due to drug gang violence. Reported by www.thehindu.com

Sources

• www.scmp.com — Rubio Advocates for US Action Against Drug Cartels in Ecuador
• www.thehindu.com — Rubio Advocates for Aggressive Tactics Against Drug Traffickers in Ecuador