politics
March 16, 2026
Ecuador-US 'war' with drug cartels begins with two-week operation
Ecuador over the weekend launched a major military offensive against drug “mafias” in the country, an operation that is being carried out with support from the United States.
TL;DR
- Ecuador launched a major military offensive against drug "mafias" over the weekend.
- The operation has support from the United States, including logistical assistance.
- Criminal organizations in Guayas, Los Rios, and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas are being targeted for two weeks.
- A curfew is in effect from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. in coastal provinces until March 30.
- 75,000 Ecuadoran police and soldiers have been deployed.
- Ecuador's location between Colombia and Peru makes it a key transit point for narcotics.
- The U.S. announced plans to establish the first FBI office in Ecuador.
- Ecuador is part of the "Shield of the Americas" coalition aimed at eradicating cartel influence.
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