US Boosts Security Support for Ecuador Amid Rising Crime Concerns

The United States has announced a significant increase in security funding for Ecuador, pledging $45 million to bolster the country's efforts against crime under President Daniel Noboa's government. This announcement was made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his visit to Quito, where he praised Ecuador as a key partner in combating criminal networks.

Rubio's remarks highlighted the close collaboration between the US and Ecuador, particularly in dismantling criminal organizations. He described the Ecuadorian government as the "most involved and aggressive partner" in these efforts. In addition to the security funding, the US will initiate a $10 million program aimed at addressing illegal gold mining, gang recruitment, and drug trafficking. Furthermore, the US will provide a coast guard cutter and five interceptor vessels to enhance Ecuador's naval capabilities, building on the seven vessels delivered earlier this year.

During his visit, Rubio designated the drug trafficking group Los Tiguerones as a "foreign terrorist organization," citing their involvement in narcotics trafficking and a violent incident involving a television station takeover in 2024. This designation is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to confront what they label as terrorist capabilities among various criminal organizations in Latin America.

Source: www.aljazeera.com