The United States has launched a military operation in Ecuador as part of SOUTHCOM’s anti-drug campaign, targeting transnational narcotics networks operating in the region. U.S. forces are working closely with Ecuadorian security agencies to dismantle criminal organizations and disrupt illegal drug trafficking routes. Officials stress that the operation is focused on law enforcement and preventing threats to regional stability, not combat against civilians.

Breaking: U.S. Military Conducts Operation in Ecuador 

A massive fire erupted at Ecuador's largest oil refinery, the Esmeraldas facility, on January 30, 2026, following an explosion, but was quickly contained with no casualties reported.


Ecuador Refinery Inferno: Esmeraldas Blaze Contained, Zero Casualties

A US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent was stopped from entering Ecuador’s consulate in Minneapolis by staff, prompting a formal diplomatic protest to the US Embassy in Quito as anti-immigration operations and tensions continue in the city.


Ecuador: ICE Agent Tried To Enter Minneapolis Consulate |

Colombia has suspended electricity exports to Ecuador and imposed 30% tariffs on 20 Ecuadorian products in retaliation for Ecuador's matching tariffs, escalating a trade dispute blamed on President Daniel Noboa's accusations of inadequate Colombian cooperation against drug trafficking.


Ecuador-Colombia: Bogota Suspends Sales, Targets Ecuador Goods 

An explosion was reported outside Machala Prison, prompting concern and confusion in the community. Families have gathered outside the forensic center in Machala as authorities continue to assess the situation. 


Ecuador: Explosion reported outside Machala prison, 13 inmates dead 

Ecuador: A deadly riot erupted in Machala Prison in southern Ecuador on November 9, 2025, leading to the deaths of at least 31 inmates and injuries to over 30 others, including a police officer. The violence, marked by gunfire and explosions, was triggered by the transfer of inmates to a new maximum-security facility. 

Ecuador: Thousands Protest Ahead of Referendum | Foreign Military Bases To Return To Ecuador?

Ecuador: A deadly riot erupted in Machala Prison in southern Ecuador on November 9, 2025, leading to the deaths of at least 31 inmates and injuries to over 30 others, including a police officer. The violence, marked by gunfire and explosions, was triggered by the transfer of inmates to a new maximum-security facility. 


Ecuador: Prison Riots Claim Dozens of Lives Amid Growing Gang War 

Ecuador: At least 31 inmates were killed in a deadly riot at Machala Prison in Ecuador’s El Oro province. Authorities reported that 27 prisoners died due to asphyxiation, described as immediate death by suspension, while four others died in a separate violent incident the same day. 

Ecuador: Deadly Riots Rock Ecuadorian Prison | Machala Facility Violence 

Ecuador: Deadly Riots Rocks Ecuadorian Prison, At Least 31 Inmates Killed 

Gen-Z protests are sweeping across the globe, with young activists demanding change on climate, social justice, and economic issues. Meanwhile, Ecuador faces severe disruptions as three weeks of strikes and roadblocks bring parts of the country to a standstill.


Morocco's Gen Z Protesters Return to Streets Calling For End To Corruption

Ecuador: Demonstrators blocked a main road to the city, demanding the return of diesel subsidies.


Ecuador: Tensions rising as people are out on the street against the diesel price rise

Protests and Clashes in Ecuador, President Noboa Declares Emergency 


Ecuador: Protests and clashes in Ecuador, president Noboa declares emergency 

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Ecuador on Wednesday night and is set to meet President Daniel Noboa to discuss boosting military and security cooperation. With rising gang violence and unrest in Ecuador, the US is looking to deepen its role in supporting regional stability. The visit also reflects growing alignment between the US and Ecuador's right-wing leadership on internal security and military deployment.

Marco Rubio in Ecuador: US offers military help amid surge in violence 

Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa Leads March Against Country's Constitutional Court | Race To Power


The leader of the Los Choneros gang was arrested on June 25, six months after he escaped from the Guayaquil prison in Ecuador, where he was serving 34 years for homicide and drug trafficking. Here is what you should know about Fito, the man who went from taxi driver to gang lord

From taxi driver to gang lord: Who is Fito, Ecuador's most wanted man extradited to US to face justice?

Ecuador most wanted drug lord Fito captured hiding in bunker WATCH

Ecuador most wanted drug lord 'Fito' captured hiding in bunker-WATCH

Ecuador has deployed intelligence and counter-terrorism forces to the Amazon region to hunt down guerrillas and combat illegal mining. This move comes amid a surge in violence and crime in the country, with 11 Ecuadorian armed personnel recently killed in an ambush. Watch to know more!

Ecuador's Amazon crackdown: Troops deployed to combat gangs and illegal mining

Ecuador military personnel killed by FARC guerrillas in anti-mining operation near Colombia border, sparking violence and unrest.

Ecuador declares national mourning for 11 soldiers killed in ambush

Ecuador Declares National Mourning For 11 Troops Killed By FARC

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa prepares to take charge amid serious allegations of election fraud and a shocking claim of a plot to assassinate him. While international observers dismiss the fraud accusations, some Latin American nations remain cautious, with Mexico and Colombia yet to recognize his win.

President Noboa faces fraud allegations and death plot claims in Ecuador turmoil

In Ecuador's recent elections, Daniel Noboa secured 50% of the vote, while his opponent, Luisa González, received 44%. The results highlight a close race, reflecting deep political divisions in the country. The outcome sets the stage for a pivotal phase in Ecuador's future leadership.

Incumbent Daniel Noboa wins Ecuador presidential vote, opposition demands recount

Ecuadorians are casting their votes in a closely watched presidential runoff between President Daniel Noboa and leftist challenger Luisa Gonzalez. Noboa, who narrowly led the first round by just 16,000 votes, seeks a full term amid rising drug violence and economic challenges. Both candidates have pledged to restore safety and stabilize Ecuador's struggling economy.

Ecuador votes in high-stakes presidential runoff election 2025

World | The election has been dominated by anger over cartel violence that has transformed Ecuador from one of the safest countries in Latin America to the most deadly.

Ecuador votes in razor-close presidential election

Ecuador heads to the polls on April 13 for a decisive presidential runoff between incumbent Daniel Noboa and leftist candidate Luisa González. As Noboa makes his final pitch, meeting university students in Quito, both candidates gear up for a crucial showdown. Watch for more details!

Ecuador elections: Incumbent Prez Daniel Noboa to face leftist Luisa Gonzalez

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