U.S., Ecuador Launch Joint Anti-Cartel Operations as 70% of Global Cocaine Crosses Ecuadorian Ports
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 24
U.S., Ecuador Launch Joint Anti-Cartel Operations as 70% of Global Cocaine Crosses Ecuadorian Ports
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 24
Summary
U.S. and Ecuadorian forces began joint operations in Ecuador on Tuesday targeting suspected narco-terrorists, with Quito saying the partnership has already helped uncover drug shipments and disrupt criminal networks.
Foreign Minister Roberto Kury said U.S. intelligence and security support is paired with Ecuadorian police and military on the ground, but stressed any action must respect Ecuador's sovereignty.
Roughly 70% of the world's cocaine passes through Ecuadorian ports, and President Daniel Noboa has put the military into an "internal armed conflict" against groups battling for trafficking routes.
The campaign fits President Donald Trump's push to use U.S. power more aggressively in the Western Hemisphere, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling Ecuador Washington's most aggressive regional partner.
Beyond security, Quito is also helping with U.S. deportation transit and seeking deeper trade and investment ties; the U.S. bought into a relationship already worth $7.7 billion in exports in 2024.