As Ecuador prepares for its upcoming presidential election on the 9th of February, campaigns have officially concluded. A mandatory silence period has taken effect, and voters are all set to participate in the polls to elect both a president and national legislators, nearly 18 months after the previous presidential elections. Watch in for more details!

Ecuadorians to vote in presidential election on February 9

Genetic tests on charred bodies found near an Ecuador military base confirm they are those of four boys taken by soldiers three weeks ago, officials said Tuesday.&nbsp;
The disappearance of the boys, aged between 11 and 15, sparked protests in the South American nation, which is in the throes of an armed struggle between narco gangs and security forces.
Saul Arboleda, Steven Medina, and brothers Josue and Ismael Arroyo were playing football in the western city of Guayaquil on December 8 when they went missing.
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"The results of genetic forensic tests confirm that the four bodies found in Taura correspond to the three teenagers and a boy who disappeared after a December 8 military operation," Ecuador's prosecution service wrote on the X social media platform.
An unverified video released by Ecuador's Congress appears to show a group of soldiers putting one of the minors in a vehicle and beating him, while another was seen face down.
Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo said that the soldiers, who had been on patrol, were responding to a request for help due to a robbery.
<h2>'Deeply regret'</h2>
The incident led to widespread indignation in Ecuador, where kidnapping, extortion and murders are now commonplace.
The father of one of the boys said his family received a call the night of their disappearance during which Ismael was put on the phone. The boy said soldiers had chased them down, taken them and beaten them.
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Later, the relatives received two locations via WhatsApp, one of them in the town of Taura, home to a military air base, and the other near a shrimp farm.
An anonymous caller told the family that criminals had taken the boys.
On December 24, the charred remains of four corpses were found near the Taura base, raising fears they were of the missing boys, though officials said at the time DNA tests were needed.
The prosecutors' statement on Tuesday confirmed that the bodies were of the adolescents.
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Authorities early last week raided the Taura base and confiscated the phones of 16 soldiers suspected to be involved in the disappearance, as well as the vehicles used to transport the minors.
On Tuesday, the soldiers -- who had been put in military detention -- were ordered into custody by a criminal court.&nbsp;
They are being investigated for the forced disappearance of the boys, which carries a sentence of up to 26 years' imprisonment if they are convicted.
The soldiers claim they had released the boys in the area after a brief detention and that all four had been alive and in good condition at that time.
The Defense Ministry in a statement on behalf of the government, said "we deeply regret" that it has been confirmed that the bodies are those of the missing adolescents.
"We reaffirm our commitment to the truth, so that this case is handled with total transparency until we find those responsible for this murder," it added.
Dozens of relatives, neighbors and activists waving placards staged a protest outside a court demanding the soldiers be jailed.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The disappearance of the boys, aged between 11 and 15, sparked protests in the South American nation, which is in the throes of an armed struggle between narco gangs and security forces.

Genetic tests on charred bodies found near an Ecuador military base confirm they are those of four boys taken by soldiers three weeks ago, officials said Tuesday. The disappearance of the boys, aged between 11 and 15, sparked protests in the South American nation, which is in the throes of an armed struggle between narco gangs and security forces. Saul Arboleda, Steven Medina, and brothers Josue and Ismael Arroyo were playing football in the western city of Guayaquil on December 8 when they went missing. Also read | South Korean investigators vow to execute arrest warrant against Yoon before Jan 6 "The results of genetic forensic tests confirm that the four bodies found in Taura correspond to the three teenagers and a boy who disappeared after a December 8 military operation," Ecuador's prosecution service wrote on the X social media platform. An unverified video released by Ecuador's Congress appears to show a group of soldiers putting one of the minors in a vehicle and beating him, while another was seen face down. Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo said that the soldiers, who had been on patrol, were responding to a request for help due to a robbery. 'Deeply regret' The incident led to widespread indignation in Ecuador, where kidnapping, extortion and murders are now commonplace. The father of one of the boys said his family received a call the night of their disappearance during which Ismael was put on the phone. The boy said soldiers had chased them down, taken them and beaten them. Also read | Sunita Williams witnesses 16 New Year sunrises, Science explains how Later, the relatives received two locations via WhatsApp, one of them in the town of Taura, home to a military air base, and the other near a shrimp farm. An anonymous caller told the family that criminals had taken the boys. On December 24, the charred remains of four corpses were found near the Taura base, raising fears they were of the missing boys, though officials said at the time DNA tests were needed. The prosecutors' statement on Tuesday confirmed that the bodies were of the adolescents. Also read | Arvind Kejriwal writes to RSS, questions whether it supports BJP's actions and past wrongdoings Authorities early last week raided the Taura base and confiscated the phones of 16 soldiers suspected to be involved in the disappearance, as well as the vehicles used to transport the minors. On Tuesday, the soldiers -- who had been put in military detention -- were ordered into custody by a criminal court. They are being investigated for the forced disappearance of the boys, which carries a sentence of up to 26 years' imprisonment if they are convicted. The soldiers claim they had released the boys in the area after a brief detention and that all four had been alive and in good condition at that time. The Defense Ministry in a statement on behalf of the government, said "we deeply regret" that it has been confirmed that the bodies are those of the missing adolescents. "We reaffirm our commitment to the truth, so that this case is handled with total transparency until we find those responsible for this murder," it added. Dozens of relatives, neighbors and activists waving placards staged a protest outside a court demanding the soldiers be jailed. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ecuador: Charred bodies found near military base are of missing boys, confirm officials

Ecuador announced Tuesday that it had converted part of its $1.5 billion of external debt into protection for the Amazon rainforest. Watch this report for more details!

Ecuador Secures $1.5 Bn Debt Swap To Fund Amazon Conservation

Honey-cream Labrador retriever named Aldo is helping young Ecuadorean children relax at the dentist's office. Aldo allows them to cuddle up and stroke him to distract them from noisy machines and invasive oral procedures. Watch to know more!

Friendly Labrador Aldo Calms Ecuadorean kids During Dentist Visit | World News | WION

Rural communities in the Andes of Colombia and Ecuador are fighting to protect fragile high-altitude wetlands...These wetlands regulate the area's water cycles, --- As sharp water and energy rationing hit both nations...Watch in for more details!

Colombia & Ecuador Save Wetlands

The mayor of Ecuadorian capital, Quito has declared an emergency due to fires that have besieged. The region at a time when a historic drought has stretched resources and patience.

Ecuador Capital 'Under Attack' From Five Wildfires

Quito Declares Emergency Due to Intense Fires

A raging wildfire filled Ecuador's capital of Quito with smoke and is threatening homes, as authorities rushed to control the blaze at a time when a historic drought has stretched resources and patience. Watch in for more details!

Wildfires Ravage Drought-Stricken Ecuador Capital, Armed Forces Deployed To Fight Fire

Ecuador will implement nationwide nighttime blackouts and teleworking in the public sector. This comes as the country has been hit by the worst drought in decades which is threatening the country's hydroelectric plants.

Ecuador Implements Electricity Rationing and Blackouts Amid Severe Drought

The Amazon rainforest has been ravaged by wildfires, blanketing vast regions of Brazil, Bolivia, and Ecuador in thick smoke.

Forest Fire: Out of control fire ravages Ecuador's forests

Part of a forest on the tourist hill of El Panecillo, In the historic center of Quito, was engulfed in flames, due to a forest fire which has caused alarm among residents.

Raging forest fires spread in Ecuador

An Ecuadorian court has handed a gang member to nearly 35 years in prison for plotting the murder of a journalist turned anti-corruption presidential candidate. Five others were handed Hefty prison sentences for their role in the assassination. The candidate Fernando Villavicencio was shot dead last year, take a look at this report. Watch in for more details!

Ecuador: Court finds 5 guilty for murder of Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio

Defending champions Argentina entered the Copa America 2024 semifinals on July 4 after they edged past Ecuador in a thrilling clash. However, Lionel Messi's paneka penalty went horribly wrong when the match stretched to the shootouts, after the game&nbsp;led to a 1-1 stalemate, in the quarterfinal at the NRG stadium in Texas.&nbsp;

Messi came for the first penalty shoot from Argentina and aimed to give his side an early advantage.&nbsp;The Argentina skipper, who is struggling with injuries in the ongoing tournament,&nbsp;tried an audacious attempt to put the ball into the back of the net.

However, Messi's attempt fell flat as his shot went on to clip the top of the crossbar and went over&nbsp;the Ecuador goalkeeper, who had already gone the opposite way. Here is the video below:

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Messi a menace for trying this… 🤣🤣🤣 
 
Unlucky Ecuador. <a href="https://t.co/lLSjDKSWl0">pic.twitter.com/lLSjDKSWl0</a>
— Castro1021 (@Castro1021) <a href="https://twitter.com/Castro1021/status/1809062144169722325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-quarterfinals-all-you-need-to-know-about-fixtures-timings-venues-738080">Euro 2024 Quarterfinals: All you need to know about fixtures, timings, venues</a>

In the end, Messi's miss didn't&nbsp;come back to haunt his side as goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez&nbsp;saved the day. Martinez&nbsp;saved Ecuador's first penalty attempt from Mena and also prevented a goal from Alan Minda&nbsp;as Argentina took the lead and won 4-2 in&nbsp;the shootout.

Talking about the regulation time, Messi set up the first goal of the contest before Lisandro Martinez&nbsp;provided the finishing touch. Ecuador, however, came back and displayed a spirited fight in the second half, resulting in a goal from Kevin Rodriguez in stoppage time. With no extra time in this year's Copa America, the match went to the shootouts where Martinez was the hero for Argentina.

Argentina will now face&nbsp;Venezuela or Canada in the semifinals.

Defending champions Argentina entered the Copa America 2024 semifinals on July 4 after they edged past Ecuador in a thrilling clash. However, Lionel Messi's paneka penalty went horribly wrong when the match stretched to the shootouts, after the game led to a 1-1 stalemate, in the quarterfinal at the NRG stadium in Texas.

Defending champions Argentina entered the Copa America 2024 semifinals on July 4 after they edged past Ecuador in a thrilling clash. However, Lionel Messi's paneka penalty went horribly wrong when the match stretched to the shootouts, after the game led to a 1-1 stalemate, in the quarterfinal at the NRG stadium in Texas. Messi came for the first penalty shoot from Argentina and aimed to give his side an early advantage. The Argentina skipper, who is struggling with injuries in the ongoing tournament, tried an audacious attempt to put the ball into the back of the net. However, Messi's attempt fell flat as his shot went on to clip the top of the crossbar and went over the Ecuador goalkeeper, who had already gone the opposite way. Here is the video below: Messi a menace for trying this… 🤣🤣🤣 Unlucky Ecuador. pic.twitter.com/lLSjDKSWl0 — Castro1021 (@Castro1021) July 5, 2024 × Also read: Euro 2024 Quarterfinals: All you need to know about fixtures, timings, venues In the end, Messi's miss didn't come back to haunt his side as goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez saved the day. Martinez saved Ecuador's first penalty attempt from Mena and also prevented a goal from Alan Minda as Argentina took the lead and won 4-2 in the shootout. Talking about the regulation time, Messi set up the first goal of the contest before Lisandro Martinez provided the finishing touch. Ecuador, however, came back and displayed a spirited fight in the second half, resulting in a goal from Kevin Rodriguez in stoppage time. With no extra time in this year's Copa America, the match went to the shootouts where Martinez was the hero for Argentina. Argentina will now face Venezuela or Canada in the semifinals.

Watch: Messi's paneka penalty goes wrong in Argentina's win vs Ecuador to reach Copa America semis

Prosecutors in the US have charged an Ecuadorian migrant for raping a 13-year-old girl he bound and gagged at Kissena Park in Queens. The accused rapist, 25-year-old Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, was presented in a New York criminal court Wednesday (Jun 19) where he was arraigned on charges of rape, predatory sexual assault, kidnapping and a raft of other felonies from the shocking June 13 attack.

“I was nervous at first, then got comfortable and recorded it,” Inga-Landi admitted in the court. He had scratches on his face and he kept his head down throughout the hearing. Judge Joanne B. Watters has ordered his detention without bail until July 1, the date of his next appearance in the court.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the charges in court and lauded the victim&nbsp;and her male companion for bravery.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj_qteD0OmGAxVbjVYBHX3uDzQQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-referendum-says-yes-to-anti-mafia-measures-no-to-economic-reforms-713739" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-referendum-says-yes-to-anti-mafia-measures-no-to-economic-reforms-713739&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj_qteD0OmGAxVbjVYBHX3uDzQQxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Ecuador referendum says yes to anti-mafia measures, no to economic reforms</a>

"I would like to talk a little bit about the bravery these two 13-year-old children have. It is amazing what they went through, their identification, their memory of the tattoo, the braces - all which was on point," Katz later said in a press conference.

<h2>What happened at the Kissena Park?</h2>

As per the prosecutor, Inga-Landi approached the duo in a wooded area at the park, forcibly tied them up and gagged their mouths with cloth. After snatching their cell phones, he allegedly started raping the girl. Before fleeing the scene with their cell phones, Inga asked both of them to stay there for 20 minutes.

“This attack on two children in broad daylight in a city park strikes the very core of our society," stated Katz in a news release.

<h2>Inga-Landi's arrest</h2>

New York City police Tuesday (Jun 18) shared details and developments leading up to Inga-Landi's arrest. Residents identified him through the wanted posters that were placed by the authorities.

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A group conducted a citizen's arrest and held him down until the police arrived.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj_qteD0OmGAxVbjVYBHX3uDzQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ecuador-landslide-6-killed-30-missing-as-rescue-teams-deployed-732766" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/ecuador-landslide-6-killed-30-missing-as-rescue-teams-deployed-732766&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj_qteD0OmGAxVbjVYBHX3uDzQQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Ecuador Landslide: 6 killed, 30 missing as rescue teams deployed</a>

New York Post later reported the accused had been ordered to leave the US by immigration judges two years ago.

The 25-year-old criminal is already facing two counts of robbery, obstructing governmental administration and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prosecutors in the US have charged an Ecuadorian migrant for raping a 13-year-old girl he bound and gagged at Kissena Park in Queens. The accused rapist, 25-year-old Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, was presented in a New York criminal court Wednesday (Jun 19) where he was arraigned on charges of rape, predatory sexual assault, kidnapping and a raft of other felonies from the shocking June 13 attack.

Prosecutors in the US have charged an Ecuadorian migrant for raping a 13-year-old girl he bound and gagged at Kissena Park in Queens. The accused rapist, 25-year-old Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, was presented in a New York criminal court Wednesday (Jun 19) where he was arraigned on charges of rape, predatory sexual assault, kidnapping and a raft of other felonies from the shocking June 13 attack. “I was nervous at first, then got comfortable and recorded it,” Inga-Landi admitted in the court. He had scratches on his face and he kept his head down throughout the hearing. Judge Joanne B. Watters has ordered his detention without bail until July 1, the date of his next appearance in the court. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced the charges in court and lauded the victim and her male companion for bravery. Also read: Ecuador referendum says yes to anti-mafia measures, no to economic reforms "I would like to talk a little bit about the bravery these two 13-year-old children have. It is amazing what they went through, their identification, their memory of the tattoo, the braces - all which was on point," Katz later said in a press conference. What happened at the Kissena Park? As per the prosecutor, Inga-Landi approached the duo in a wooded area at the park, forcibly tied them up and gagged their mouths with cloth. After snatching their cell phones, he allegedly started raping the girl. Before fleeing the scene with their cell phones, Inga asked both of them to stay there for 20 minutes. “This attack on two children in broad daylight in a city park strikes the very core of our society," stated Katz in a news release. Inga-Landi's arrest New York City police Tuesday (Jun 18) shared details and developments leading up to Inga-Landi's arrest. Residents identified him through the wanted posters that were placed by the authorities. × A group conducted a citizen's arrest and held him down until the police arrived. Also read: Ecuador Landslide: 6 killed, 30 missing as rescue teams deployed New York Post later reported the accused had been ordered to leave the US by immigration judges two years ago. The 25-year-old criminal is already facing two counts of robbery, obstructing governmental administration and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuadorian migrant accused of raping 13-year-old US teen admits he recorded incident

Power was nearly fully restored in Ecuador on Wednesday afternoon, after a nationwide electricity outage struck residential users, hospitals as well as the capital's subway system, a failure officials blamed on faulty transmission lines.

Public Works Minister Roberto Luque said in a post on X that 95% of service had been restored by late Wednesday afternoon.

The outage left the nation of some 18 million in the dark, as the minister also singled out insufficient maintenance as a contributing factor.

"What happened today is just more proof of the energy crisis we're dealing with," he said, ticking off recent problems caused by insufficient power generation that has led to unscheduled service cuts.

Luque, who also serves as acting energy minister, stressed that Wednesday's outage was due to a lack of investment in transmission that could have been avoided.

Luque had earlier in the day pinned the blame on a transmission line failure that caused "a cascade disconnection."

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In April, Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa declared an energy emergency and announced planned electricity cuts.

Wednesday's outage caused dangerous driving conditions for scores of motorists, as traffic lights ceased working.

Operations of Quito's subway were also interrupted for several hours.

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While the South American country has struggled with a drought affecting hydro-electricity power generation, heavy rains over the weekend forced authorities to take three hydroelectric plants offline

The weekend rains provoked a landslide that killed at least 17 people and left dozens injured. The disaster also prompted Ecuador's private OCP oil pipeline to suspend operations and declare force majeure.

Power was nearly fully restored in Ecuador on Wednesday afternoon, after a nationwide electricity outage struck residential users, hospitals as well as the capital's subway system, a failure officials blamed on faulty transmission lines.

Power was nearly fully restored in Ecuador on Wednesday afternoon, after a nationwide electricity outage struck residential users, hospitals as well as the capital's subway system, a failure officials blamed on faulty transmission lines. Public Works Minister Roberto Luque said in a post on X that 95% of service had been restored by late Wednesday afternoon. The outage left the nation of some 18 million in the dark, as the minister also singled out insufficient maintenance as a contributing factor. "What happened today is just more proof of the energy crisis we're dealing with," he said, ticking off recent problems caused by insufficient power generation that has led to unscheduled service cuts. Luque, who also serves as acting energy minister, stressed that Wednesday's outage was due to a lack of investment in transmission that could have been avoided. Luque had earlier in the day pinned the blame on a transmission line failure that caused "a cascade disconnection." Also read: Ecuador Landslide: 6 killed, 30 missing as rescue teams deployed In April, Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa declared an energy emergency and announced planned electricity cuts. Wednesday's outage caused dangerous driving conditions for scores of motorists, as traffic lights ceased working. Operations of Quito's subway were also interrupted for several hours. Also read: Ecuador referendum says yes to anti-mafia measures, no to economic reforms While the South American country has struggled with a drought affecting hydro-electricity power generation, heavy rains over the weekend forced authorities to take three hydroelectric plants offline The weekend rains provoked a landslide that killed at least 17 people and left dozens injured. The disaster also prompted Ecuador's private OCP oil pipeline to suspend operations and declare force majeure.

Massive power blackout reported in Ecuador due to 'transmission failure'

A landslide in Ecuador killed at least six people and left 19 injured. The 'large-magnitude' landslide occurred in the centre of the country.

Ecuador Landslide: 6 killed, 30 missing as rescue teams deployed

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Wednesday (May 22) declared a fresh state of emergency in seven provinces out of the total 24, citing an increase in violent deaths and other crimes in those jurisdictions.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa on Wednesday (May 22) declared a fresh state of emergency in seven provinces out of the total 24, citing an increase in violent deaths and other crimes in those jurisdictions. As per a decree signed by President Noboa, the state of emergency, which will last for 60 days, has been imposed in Guayas, El Oro, Santa Elena, Manabi, Sucumbios, Orellana and Los Rios provinces, as well as one area of the Azuay province. The government said that the decree would be submitted to the Constitutional Court. Under this state of emergency, security forces will be able to enter homes and intercept correspondence in the targeted provinces without prior authorisation, Noboa said on Wednesday. The second state of emergency this year The president had earlier imposed a similar measure in January, after notorious gangster Jose Adolfo Macias, alias "Fito" -- escaped from maximum security detention. This state of emergency ended in April. Also read | Ecuadorian beauty queen fatally shot after her Instagram post leads killers to her location Noboa has blamed the violence on drug gangs which move cocaine from Colombia and Peru through Ecuador. He has previously used state of emergency declarations to increase police and military operations meant to fight thousands of murders and other crimes. An appeal to Noboa by Human Rights Watch As Noboa declared the state of emergency on Wednesday, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged the Ecuadorian president to reverse his declaration of a state of "internal armed conflict" in the gang-violence-torn country, saying it had opened the door to rights abuses. In a letter addressed to Noboa, the HRW said that the president's efforts to reduce violence blamed on an escalating war between rival gangs, the security situation "continues to be dire." Not only that but there have been "multiple instances of serious human rights violations committed by security forces," the HRW added. The letter further added that "many people" detained since January "were apparently never taken before a prosecutor or judge," some of them beaten by soldiers and police. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador declares new state of emergency for 60 days following rise in violent deaths

Ecuadorian beauty queen<a href="https://www.instagram.com/landyparraga.ec/"> Landy Párraga Goyburo</a> was shot and killed in a restaurant during the daytime on Satuday (May 4).&nbsp;It's said that her post on Instagram led her killers to find her there. Police are investigating, and there's speculation that the attack was ordered by the spouse of a drug lord she was rumoured to have been involved with.

The New York Post said that Goyburo was talking to a man inside the restaurant. She saw masked attackers coming in. Then, a gunman shot at both Goyburo and the man she was talking to. After that, the gunman and another person fled the scene.

According to the outlet, Goyburo competed in the 2022 Miss Ecuador contest, representing Los Rios province. She has a sportswear line and has amassed over a million followers on her social media pages.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-ecuador-on-edge-as-it-faces-fresh-violence-after-govts-crackdown-on-gangs-678906">Also read |&nbsp;Explained | How Ecuador became a nation held hostage by its own criminal gangs</a>

In December last year, her name was mentioned in a conversation between deceased drug trafficker Leandro Norero and his accountant, Helive Angulo. The Attorney General’s Office was reportedly looking into her finances, but she was never charged with any crime. She has not publicly commented on Norero.

Goyburo was shot three times at the restaurant.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-files-lawsuit-against-mexico-at-world-court-over-asylum-decision-716458">Also read |&nbsp;Ecuador files lawsuit against Mexico at World Court over asylum decision</a>

Investigators found Goyburo's photos on Norero's phone, along with evidence that he gave her expensive gifts like cars, according to The Telegraph newspaper.

During Angulo's trial in court, prosecutors said that the deceased drug trafficker pleaded with the accountant not to tell anyone about his relationship with the beauty queen, saying,&nbsp;"If my wife comes across anything about her, I’m screwed."

(With inputs from agencies)

Ecuadorian beauty queen Landy Párraga Goyburo was shot and killed in a restaurant during the daytime on Satuday (May 4). It's said that her post on Instagram led her killers to find her there.

Ecuadorian beauty queen Landy Párraga Goyburo was shot and killed in a restaurant during the daytime on Satuday (May 4). It's said that her post on Instagram led her killers to find her there. Police are investigating, and there's speculation that the attack was ordered by the spouse of a drug lord she was rumoured to have been involved with. The New York Post said that Goyburo was talking to a man inside the restaurant. She saw masked attackers coming in. Then, a gunman shot at both Goyburo and the man she was talking to. After that, the gunman and another person fled the scene. According to the outlet, Goyburo competed in the 2022 Miss Ecuador contest, representing Los Rios province. She has a sportswear line and has amassed over a million followers on her social media pages. Also read | Explained | How Ecuador became a nation held hostage by its own criminal gangs In December last year, her name was mentioned in a conversation between deceased drug trafficker Leandro Norero and his accountant, Helive Angulo. The Attorney General’s Office was reportedly looking into her finances, but she was never charged with any crime. She has not publicly commented on Norero. Goyburo was shot three times at the restaurant. Also read | Ecuador files lawsuit against Mexico at World Court over asylum decision Investigators found Goyburo's photos on Norero's phone, along with evidence that he gave her expensive gifts like cars, according to The Telegraph newspaper. During Angulo's trial in court, prosecutors said that the deceased drug trafficker pleaded with the accountant not to tell anyone about his relationship with the beauty queen, saying, "If my wife comes across anything about her, I’m screwed." (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuadorian beauty queen fatally shot after her Instagram post leads killers to her location

The people of Ecuador have approved series of security measures including extradition for the drug traffickers in a referendum on Sunday (April 21). But the Ecuadoreans also simultaneously rejected investor-friendly economic reforms, in a partial victory to President Daniel Noboa.&nbsp;

A total of nine points of interest on action against cocaine cartels were out for referendum on Sunday — which passed the test easily.&nbsp;<img alt="Ecuador" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ecuador.png" />

But voters rejected by large margins proposals to liberalise the labour market and allow international arbitration for foreign investors in the country.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The referendum was the first hard test of Noboa's popularity since he took office in November. Having given a stamp of approval for his anti-gang policies, key for his potential re-election next year, the referendum's results are expected to strengthen his grip on the capital Quito's corridors of power.

But simultaneously, the rejection of his proposed economic measures weaken his mandate to implement painful reforms to make way for a new deal with&nbsp;the International Monetary Fund.

Also watch | Why is there unrest in Ecuador? - WION Web Originals News

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The referendum shows that Noboa is still the frontrunner in next year’s election.

Noboa, 36, saw his approval ratings rise when he declared a state of emergency. Noboa then instructed the army to be on the streets to fight the organised crime gangs. The gang violence in Ecuador has made the once-peaceful nation more violent than Mexico and Columbia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-suspends-relations-with-ecuador-after-arrest-of-ex-vp-708337">Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP</a>

Almost 40,000 troops were deployed to provide security at polling stations. But mayors of two mining towns in southwest Ecuador were assassinated within hours of each other just days before the voting.

Noboa has&nbsp;raised taxes despite having promised to cut them, and failed to fulfill a pledge to fix rolling electricity blackouts.

Noboa, the US-educated son of wealthy banana exporters, won last year’s presidential election, but only to serve out the term of Guillermo Lasso which ends next year. The country holds another general election on Feb 9 next year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-says-diplomatic-staff-leave-ecuador-as-latin-american-nations-un-chief-condemn-embassy-raid-708773">Mexico`s diplomatic staff leave Ecuador as Latin American nations, UN chief condemn embassy raid</a>

The referendum took place amid an international crisis when Noboa sent police into Mexico's embassy&nbsp;to arrest a former vice president convicted of corruption.

Ecuador’s violation of diplomatic protocols caused widespread international condemnation but the residents rallied behind the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

The people of Ecuador have approved series of security measures including extradition for the drug traffickers in a referendum on Sunday (April 21). But the Ecuadoreans also simultaneously rejected investor-friendly economic reforms, in a partial victory to President Daniel Noboa.

The people of Ecuador have approved series of security measures including extradition for the drug traffickers in a referendum on Sunday (April 21). But the Ecuadoreans also simultaneously rejected investor-friendly economic reforms, in a partial victory to President Daniel Noboa. A total of nine points of interest on action against cocaine cartels were out for referendum on Sunday — which passed the test easily. But voters rejected by large margins proposals to liberalise the labour market and allow international arbitration for foreign investors in the country. What does it mean? The referendum was the first hard test of Noboa's popularity since he took office in November. Having given a stamp of approval for his anti-gang policies, key for his potential re-election next year, the referendum's results are expected to strengthen his grip on the capital Quito's corridors of power. But simultaneously, the rejection of his proposed economic measures weaken his mandate to implement painful reforms to make way for a new deal with the International Monetary Fund. Also watch | Why is there unrest in Ecuador? - WION Web Originals News × The referendum shows that Noboa is still the frontrunner in next year’s election. Noboa, 36, saw his approval ratings rise when he declared a state of emergency. Noboa then instructed the army to be on the streets to fight the organised crime gangs. The gang violence in Ecuador has made the once-peaceful nation more violent than Mexico and Columbia. Also read | Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP Almost 40,000 troops were deployed to provide security at polling stations. But mayors of two mining towns in southwest Ecuador were assassinated within hours of each other just days before the voting. Noboa has raised taxes despite having promised to cut them, and failed to fulfill a pledge to fix rolling electricity blackouts. Noboa, the US-educated son of wealthy banana exporters, won last year’s presidential election, but only to serve out the term of Guillermo Lasso which ends next year. The country holds another general election on Feb 9 next year. Also read | Mexico`s diplomatic staff leave Ecuador as Latin American nations, UN chief condemn embassy raid The referendum took place amid an international crisis when Noboa sent police into Mexico's embassy to arrest a former vice president convicted of corruption. Ecuador’s violation of diplomatic protocols caused widespread international condemnation but the residents rallied behind the government. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador referendum says yes to anti-mafia measures, no to economic reforms

Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, emitted a series of near-perfect rings over the weekend, drawing parallels to smoke rings or a fleet of huge flying saucers floating gently into the blue sky.

Italy: Volcano Mount Etna make smoke rings and lights up Sicilian sky

Mexico’s diplomatic personnel are leaving Ecuador, on Sunday (Apr 7) said the Mexican foreign minister after the two countries severed ties. This comes after the police raided Mexico’s embassy in Quito and arrested former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas.&nbsp;

The raid has prompted criticism across Latin America, the United States,&nbsp;Honduras, Spain, the European Union, and United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres also condemned Ecuador’s decision saying that it violates the sanctity of diplomatic and consular property.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Leaving everything in Ecuador’</h2>

“Our diplomatic staff are leaving everything in Ecuador and returning home with their heads held high... after the assault on our embassy,” said Mexico’s Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena, on X.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Mexico suspends diplomatic ties with Ecuador

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According to Mexican officials, the group of 18 diplomats will be accompanied by “friendly and allied countries” to the airport.&nbsp;

Mexican diplomats would also be travelling on a commercial airline to Mexico City after the possibility of sending a military plane was ruled out due to ongoing tensions between the two countries.&nbsp;

The departure comes amid a growing rift between Mexico and Ecuador which had been going on for days and culminated on Friday (Apr 5) after Mexico granted political asylum to Glas, who served as VP under leftist former President Rafael Correa between 2013 and 2017.

Glas, 54, convicted twice for corruption, had sought shelter in the embassy in Quito since seeking political asylum in December.&nbsp;

<h2>The police raid</h2>

On Friday, Mexican president Andrés Manuel López Obrador took to X and said “police from Ecuador forcibly entered” his country’s embassy in Quito and took the former VP who “was a refugee and processing asylum because of the persecution and harassment he faces.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-situation-critical-in-orsk-after-severe-flooding-causes-dam-to-burst-708682">Russia: Situation ‘critical’ in Orsk after severe flooding causes dam to burst</a>

The dramatic footage of the police raid shows heavily armed officers massing around the building and senior Mexican diplomat, Roberto Canseco being wrestled to the ground as Glas was driven away.&nbsp;

The Ecuadorian government of President Daniel Noboa later confirmed the arrest and said Glas was “sentenced to imprisonment by the Ecuadorian justice system,” in a statement.&nbsp;

The government said Glas had been granted diplomatic asylum “contrary to the conventional legal framework.”

The former VP has since been taken to a maximum-security prison in Guayaquil known as La Roca, said Ecuador’s national prisons agency, SNAI, on Saturday.&nbsp;

<h2>Police raid draws condemnation</h2>

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela condemned the move by Ecuadorian authorities, while Nicaragua joined Mexico in severing diplomatic ties with Quito over Noboa’s “astonishing and despicable act”.&nbsp;

Barcena expressed shock at Ecuador’s incursion into Mexico’s embassy in Quito calling it “a violent attack” perpetrated by the police and said that the country “reiterates its condemnation for the violation of the immunity of its embassy in Quito and the attack on its staff.”

She also went on to call it a “clear and flagrant violation of international law.”&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-suspends-relations-with-ecuador-after-arrest-of-ex-vp-708337">Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP</a>

As per international law, embassies are considered the sovereign territory of the country they represent. Additionally, the Vienna Convention says that a country cannot intrude upon an embassy on its territory.

“The secretary general is alarmed at the forced entry of Ecuadorian security forces into the premises of the Mexican embassy,” said the UN chief through his spokesperson on Sunday.&nbsp;

He added that violations of the sanctity of diplomatic and consular property “jeopardise the pursuit of normal international relations”.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Mexico’s diplomatic personnel are leaving Ecuador, on Sunday (Apr 7) said the Mexican foreign minister after the two countries severed ties. This comes after the police raided Mexico’s embassy in Quito and arrested former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas.

Mexico’s diplomatic personnel are leaving Ecuador, on Sunday (Apr 7) said the Mexican foreign minister after the two countries severed ties. This comes after the police raided Mexico’s embassy in Quito and arrested former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas. The raid has prompted criticism across Latin America, the United States, Honduras, Spain, the European Union, and United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres also condemned Ecuador’s decision saying that it violates the sanctity of diplomatic and consular property. ‘Leaving everything in Ecuador’ “Our diplomatic staff are leaving everything in Ecuador and returning home with their heads held high... after the assault on our embassy,” said Mexico’s Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena, on X. WATCH | Mexico suspends diplomatic ties with Ecuador According to Mexican officials, the group of 18 diplomats will be accompanied by “friendly and allied countries” to the airport. Mexican diplomats would also be travelling on a commercial airline to Mexico City after the possibility of sending a military plane was ruled out due to ongoing tensions between the two countries. The departure comes amid a growing rift between Mexico and Ecuador which had been going on for days and culminated on Friday (Apr 5) after Mexico granted political asylum to Glas, who served as VP under leftist former President Rafael Correa between 2013 and 2017. Glas, 54, convicted twice for corruption, had sought shelter in the embassy in Quito since seeking political asylum in December. The police raid On Friday, Mexican president Andrés Manuel López Obrador took to X and said “police from Ecuador forcibly entered” his country’s embassy in Quito and took the former VP who “was a refugee and processing asylum because of the persecution and harassment he faces.” Also Read | Russia: Situation ‘critical’ in Orsk after severe flooding causes dam to burst The dramatic footage of the police raid shows heavily armed officers massing around the building and senior Mexican diplomat, Roberto Canseco being wrestled to the ground as Glas was driven away. The Ecuadorian government of President Daniel Noboa later confirmed the arrest and said Glas was “sentenced to imprisonment by the Ecuadorian justice system,” in a statement. The government said Glas had been granted diplomatic asylum “contrary to the conventional legal framework.” The former VP has since been taken to a maximum-security prison in Guayaquil known as La Roca, said Ecuador’s national prisons agency, SNAI, on Saturday. Police raid draws condemnation Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela condemned the move by Ecuadorian authorities, while Nicaragua joined Mexico in severing diplomatic ties with Quito over Noboa’s “astonishing and despicable act”. Barcena expressed shock at Ecuador’s incursion into Mexico’s embassy in Quito calling it “a violent attack” perpetrated by the police and said that the country “reiterates its condemnation for the violation of the immunity of its embassy in Quito and the attack on its staff.” She also went on to call it a “clear and flagrant violation of international law.” Also Read | Mexico suspends relations with Ecuador after arrest of ex-VP As per international law, embassies are considered the sovereign territory of the country they represent. Additionally, the Vienna Convention says that a country cannot intrude upon an embassy on its territory. “The secretary general is alarmed at the forced entry of Ecuadorian security forces into the premises of the Mexican embassy,” said the UN chief through his spokesperson on Sunday. He added that violations of the sanctity of diplomatic and consular property “jeopardise the pursuit of normal international relations”. (With inputs from agencies)

Mexico's diplomatic staff leave Ecuador as Latin American nations, UN chief condemn embassy raid

Mexico and Ecuador tensions are on the rise becuase Mexico has suspended diplomatic ties with Ecuador after police forcibly broke into its embassy and arrested former Ecuadorian Vice-President.

Mexico suspends diplomatic ties with Ecuador | Ecudorian forces storm Mexico's embassy in Quito

A flash flood in the Ecuadorian capital of Quito has killed at least one. The Ecuadorian national police said all of Quito's First Responders and police officers were called to the streets to deal with the emergency. Watch in for more details!

Flash Floods in Ecuador kills at least 1

Ecuador on Sunday (Mar 24) was shaken by tragedy as Brigitte Garcia, the youngest mayor in the country, was found shot dead along with her communications director, Jairo Loor, inside a car early on Sunday.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

Police reported that 27-year-old Garcia, the mayor of San Vicente and Loor, had suffered gunshot wounds. The incident occurred in the province of Manabi.

The tragedy comes amidst a wave of violence linked to drug trafficking.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-raises-terror-alert-warning-to-highest-level-after-moscow-concert-attack-703916">France raises terror alert warning to highest level after Moscow concert attack</a>

Garcia, a nurse by profession, had made history by becoming the youngest mayor in Ecuador. A member of former President Rafael Correa's Citizen Revolution Movement party, she was elected with 35 per cent of the votes in the 2023 sectional elections.

While authorities are still investigating the death, it was revealed on Sunday that the gunfire came from within the rented vehicle.&nbsp;

Police are currently tracking the car's GPS system for further leads.

<h2>An assassination?</h2>

Luisa Gonzalez, the party's presidential candidate in recent elections, described Garcia's killing as an assassination on the social media platform X.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-police-arrest-three-suspects-in-2018-murder-of-rio-council-member-703893">Brazil police arrest three suspects in 2018 murder of Rio council member</a>

"I've just found out they've assassinated our fellow mayor of San Vicente Brigitte Garcia," said Gonzalez, adding, "I have no words. In shock, nobody is safe in Ecuador, NOBODY."

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Por favor hay que denunciar esta cuenta. 
No se puede ser tan MISERABLES y jugar con el nombre y honor de una chica sencilla, humilde que hoy enluta a Manabí en medio del dolor irreparable de su familia. <a href="https://t.co/hnlq93mgvC">https://t.co/hnlq93mgvC</a>
— Luisa González (@LuisaGonzalezEc) <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisaGonzalezEc/status/1771957663162667441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Garcia's tragic death follows a pattern of violence against political figures in Ecuador. Last August, presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was assassinated, just two weeks before the election. As per Reuters, Villavicencio was known for his outspoken criticism of corruption and organised crime.

In response to the escalating violence, President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency in January. This move came after armed men invaded a TV station during a live broadcast. Noboa also classified 22 criminal groups as terrorist organisations.

The state of emergency was extended earlier this month.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador on Sunday (Mar 24) was shaken by tragedy as Brigitte Garcia, the youngest mayor in the country, was found shot dead along with her communications director, Jairo Loor, inside a car early on Sunday.

Ecuador on Sunday (Mar 24) was shaken by tragedy as Brigitte Garcia, the youngest mayor in the country, was found shot dead along with her communications director, Jairo Loor, inside a car early on Sunday. What happened? Police reported that 27-year-old Garcia, the mayor of San Vicente and Loor, had suffered gunshot wounds. The incident occurred in the province of Manabi. The tragedy comes amidst a wave of violence linked to drug trafficking. Also read | France raises terror alert warning to highest level after Moscow concert attack Garcia, a nurse by profession, had made history by becoming the youngest mayor in Ecuador. A member of former President Rafael Correa's Citizen Revolution Movement party, she was elected with 35 per cent of the votes in the 2023 sectional elections. While authorities are still investigating the death, it was revealed on Sunday that the gunfire came from within the rented vehicle. Police are currently tracking the car's GPS system for further leads. An assassination? Luisa Gonzalez, the party's presidential candidate in recent elections, described Garcia's killing as an assassination on the social media platform X. Also read | Brazil police arrest three suspects in 2018 murder of Rio council member "I've just found out they've assassinated our fellow mayor of San Vicente Brigitte Garcia," said Gonzalez, adding, "I have no words. In shock, nobody is safe in Ecuador, NOBODY." Por favor hay que denunciar esta cuenta. No se puede ser tan MISERABLES y jugar con el nombre y honor de una chica sencilla, humilde que hoy enluta a Manabí en medio del dolor irreparable de su familia. https://t.co/hnlq93mgvC — Luisa González (@LuisaGonzalezEc) March 24, 2024 × Garcia's tragic death follows a pattern of violence against political figures in Ecuador. Last August, presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was assassinated, just two weeks before the election. As per Reuters, Villavicencio was known for his outspoken criticism of corruption and organised crime. In response to the escalating violence, President Daniel Noboa declared a state of emergency in January. This move came after armed men invaded a TV station during a live broadcast. Noboa also classified 22 criminal groups as terrorist organisations. The state of emergency was extended earlier this month. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador's youngest mayor Brigitte Garcia found shot dead inside car

La Cumbre volcano, located on Fernandina Island within the Galapagos archipelago, has erupted, sending a significant plume of gas and incandescent lava into the sky, as reported by Ecuador's government.

Ecuador's La Cumbre spews lava for third time in seven years

The La Cumbre volcano on the remote Galapagos island of Fernandina blew its top late Saturday (March 2), said the South American country's Geophysical Institute.

<h2>Are people in danger?</h2>

Even with the spewing lava, there is no immediate danger, said the environment ministry, as quoted by Reuters. This is because the island where the volcano is located is uninhabited.

Fernandina Island, which has no hotels or restaurants, can only be accessed for short visits from a cruise boat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/these-earth-critters-may-be-colonising-the-moon-all-thanks-to-a-2019-crash-heres-all-you-need-to-know-696342">These Earth critters may be colonising the moon, all thanks to a 2019 crash. Here's all you need to know</a>

The Geophysical Institute has advised tourists to stay away if any lava enters the sea.

"Gas emission and thermal anomalies were detected through satellite systems," said the ministry in a statement. It added that while they would continue to monitor the volcano, the eruption is not expected to affect tourism on the islands.

It said that La Cumbre blew a gas cloud about three kilometres into the air, which was dispersed by the wind without passing over other islands with human settlements, such as the neighbouring Isabela.

La Cumbre has previously erupted three times — in 2017, 2018 and 2020. It stands 1,463 metres (4,799.87 feet) high and has the highest eruption rate among all the volcanoes in the archipelago.&nbsp;

This eruption was likely bigger than those previously registered, authorities said.

Watch it here:

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Recent eruption of La Cumbre volcano on Fernandina Island, Galapagos. Despite its height of 1,476 meters, the uninhabited island poses no danger to humans.<a href="https://t.co/xMnARGFUvU">pic.twitter.com/xMnARGFUvU</a>
— Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1764367256178381075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-threatens-legal-action-against-doctors-protesting-over-medical-reforms-696358">South Korea threatens legal action against doctors protesting over medical reforms</a>

<h2>Galapagos archipelago</h2>

The volcano is part of the Galapagos archipelago. It is one of the numerous active volcanoes in the Galápagos, located nearly 1,000 km (600 miles) from mainland Ecuador. The archipelago, as per an AFP report, boasts flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world.

Famous British scientist Charles Darwin, who developed the ground-breaking theory of evolution by natural selection in the 19th century, reportedly developed his theory by observing the archipelago's wonders.

(With inputs from agencies)

The La Cumbre volcano on the remote Galapagos island of Fernandina blew its top late Saturday (March 2), said the South American country's Geophysical Institute.

The La Cumbre volcano on the remote Galapagos island of Fernandina blew its top late Saturday (March 2), said the South American country's Geophysical Institute. Are people in danger? Even with the spewing lava, there is no immediate danger, said the environment ministry, as quoted by Reuters. This is because the island where the volcano is located is uninhabited. Fernandina Island, which has no hotels or restaurants, can only be accessed for short visits from a cruise boat. Also read | These Earth critters may be colonising the moon, all thanks to a 2019 crash. Here's all you need to know The Geophysical Institute has advised tourists to stay away if any lava enters the sea. "Gas emission and thermal anomalies were detected through satellite systems," said the ministry in a statement. It added that while they would continue to monitor the volcano, the eruption is not expected to affect tourism on the islands. It said that La Cumbre blew a gas cloud about three kilometres into the air, which was dispersed by the wind without passing over other islands with human settlements, such as the neighbouring Isabela. La Cumbre has previously erupted three times — in 2017, 2018 and 2020. It stands 1,463 metres (4,799.87 feet) high and has the highest eruption rate among all the volcanoes in the archipelago. This eruption was likely bigger than those previously registered, authorities said. Watch it here: Recent eruption of La Cumbre volcano on Fernandina Island, Galapagos. Despite its height of 1,476 meters, the uninhabited island poses no danger to humans.pic.twitter.com/xMnARGFUvU — Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) March 3, 2024 × Also read | South Korea threatens legal action against doctors protesting over medical reforms Galapagos archipelago The volcano is part of the Galapagos archipelago. It is one of the numerous active volcanoes in the Galápagos, located nearly 1,000 km (600 miles) from mainland Ecuador. The archipelago, as per an AFP report, boasts flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. Famous British scientist Charles Darwin, who developed the ground-breaking theory of evolution by natural selection in the 19th century, reportedly developed his theory by observing the archipelago's wonders. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: La Cumbre volcano on Galapagos archipelago blows its top

Russia has turned to India, a country that produces significant amount of bananas and other fruits, to&nbsp;meet the demand&nbsp;within the country, said a report. This has happened after Russia stopped import from Ecuador after not being thrilled that the latter sent Russian weapons and hardware to the US. Russia has since been looking for suppliers of not only bananas, but papayas, guavas, mangoes and pineapples.

A report in The Times of India has said that the first shipment of Indian bananas reached Russia in January and another is expected to reach this month.

"The volume of exports of Indian bananas to the Russian market will increase," said Russian agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor as quoted in the report.

Although it is angry at Ecuador for geopolitical reason, Russia has obviously not said so officially. But it has been seen in past that Russia restricts food imports from countries it disagrees with.

Watch | Opposing Ukraine aid bill is playing into Putin's hands, says US President Biden

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The Russian agricultural watchdog has reportedly claimed that Russia stopped banana import from Ecuadorian companies due to detection of pests. Ecuador's food safety authority has refuted Russian claim saying that there was no substantial risk arising from its fruit exports as insects were detected in very small per cent of consignments.

<h2>So why&nbsp;is Moscow angry?</h2>

Just last week, Ecuador decided to hand over Russian-made military hardware to the US. This will eventually be used in Ukraine, the country that Russia is currently invading.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskyy-says-two-killed-in-kyiv-after-massive-russian-missiles-drone-attacks-687865">Zelensky says two killed in Kyiv after massive missiles, drone attacks by Russia</a>

Regarding the hardware as "Ukrainian and Russian scrap metal", Ecuador said that it will be swapping it for advanced US equipment which is worth USD 200 million.

Russia reacted strongly on this and called the decision taken by Ecuador 'reckless'.

Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministry's spokeswoman, told RIA that Ecuador's decision was made under pressure from external forces.

"Such a reckless decision was taken by the Ecuadorian side under serious pressure from outside interested parties," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia has turned to India, a country that produces significant amount of bananas and other fruits, to meet the demand within the country, said a report. This has happened after Russia stopped import from Ecuador after not being thrilled that the latter sent Russian weapons and hardware to the US.

Russia has turned to India, a country that produces significant amount of bananas and other fruits, to meet the demand within the country, said a report. This has happened after Russia stopped import from Ecuador after not being thrilled that the latter sent Russian weapons and hardware to the US. Russia has since been looking for suppliers of not only bananas, but papayas, guavas, mangoes and pineapples. A report in The Times of India has said that the first shipment of Indian bananas reached Russia in January and another is expected to reach this month. "The volume of exports of Indian bananas to the Russian market will increase," said Russian agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor as quoted in the report. Although it is angry at Ecuador for geopolitical reason, Russia has obviously not said so officially. But it has been seen in past that Russia restricts food imports from countries it disagrees with. Watch | Opposing Ukraine aid bill is playing into Putin's hands, says US President Biden × The Russian agricultural watchdog has reportedly claimed that Russia stopped banana import from Ecuadorian companies due to detection of pests. Ecuador's food safety authority has refuted Russian claim saying that there was no substantial risk arising from its fruit exports as insects were detected in very small per cent of consignments. So why is Moscow angry? Just last week, Ecuador decided to hand over Russian-made military hardware to the US. This will eventually be used in Ukraine, the country that Russia is currently invading. Also Read | Zelensky says two killed in Kyiv after massive missiles, drone attacks by Russia Regarding the hardware as "Ukrainian and Russian scrap metal", Ecuador said that it will be swapping it for advanced US equipment which is worth USD 200 million. Russia reacted strongly on this and called the decision taken by Ecuador 'reckless'. Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministry's spokeswoman, told RIA that Ecuador's decision was made under pressure from external forces. "Such a reckless decision was taken by the Ecuadorian side under serious pressure from outside interested parties," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia goes bananas on Ecuador, prefers Indian fruits now

With seven of its nine judges voting in favor, the country's Constitutional Court opened the door for doctors to help an untreatable patient die without going to jail.

The penalty for homicide "cannot be applied to a doctorwho performs an active euthanasia procedure in order to preserve the rights to a dignified life," the court ruling said.

The lawsuit was brought in August by Paola Roldan, suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

In her complaint, Roldan contested an article of the Ecuadorian penal code, which considers the procedure a homicide carrying a sentence of between 10 and 13 years in prison.

"I want to rest in peace. What I experience is painful, lonely and cruel," Roldan, who is bedridden, told a court hearing in November via video link.

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"This is not a fight to die. I know I'm dying, it's a fight on how to do it," she said in a broken voice, an oxygen tube attached to her nose.

<h2>'Free and informed decisions'&nbsp;</h2>

Ecuador followed in the footsteps of Colombia, which decriminalised euthanasia in 1997.

Lawmakers in Uruguay and Chile are currently debating the issue, while Mexico has a so-called "good death" law, which lets the patient or their family opt out of life support.

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After studying Roldan's arguments, the court in this traditionally conservative, majority-Catholic nation ruled that "it would be unreasonable to impose an obligation to stay alive on someone who is going through this situation."

"Every human being can make free and informed decisions when their personal development is affected, which... includes the option of ending the intense suffering caused by a serious and irreversible bodily injury or a serious and incurable illness," it said.

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The court tasked the Health Ministry with drafting regulations for the procedure within two months. For its part, the Ombudsman's office would have to draft a bill on euthanasia within six months to be approved by Congress within a year.
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But Roldan's lawyer Farith Simon on Wednesday insisted in a post on X, formerly, that "the sentence is immediately enforceable."

Writing on social media Friday, when she learned that her case before the high court was in the final stage, Roldan said: "Several times I thought that I would not be able to see the fruits of this lawsuit, like someone who plants a tree so that someone else can sit under its shadow."

 
&nbsp;

With seven of its nine judges voting in favor, the country's Constitutional Court opened the door for doctors to help an untreatable patient die without going to jail.

With seven of its nine judges voting in favor, the country's Constitutional Court opened the door for doctors to help an untreatable patient die without going to jail. The penalty for homicide "cannot be applied to a doctorwho performs an active euthanasia procedure in order to preserve the rights to a dignified life," the court ruling said. The lawsuit was brought in August by Paola Roldan, suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disease also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. In her complaint, Roldan contested an article of the Ecuadorian penal code, which considers the procedure a homicide carrying a sentence of between 10 and 13 years in prison. "I want to rest in peace. What I experience is painful, lonely and cruel," Roldan, who is bedridden, told a court hearing in November via video link. Also Read | 'Right to ignore': Australia to allow workers to shun calls, texts from bosses after work hours "This is not a fight to die. I know I'm dying, it's a fight on how to do it," she said in a broken voice, an oxygen tube attached to her nose. 'Free and informed decisions' Ecuador followed in the footsteps of Colombia, which decriminalised euthanasia in 1997. Lawmakers in Uruguay and Chile are currently debating the issue, while Mexico has a so-called "good death" law, which lets the patient or their family opt out of life support. Also Read | Joe Biden gets ridiculed as he struggles to recall Hamas' name during speech After studying Roldan's arguments, the court in this traditionally conservative, majority-Catholic nation ruled that "it would be unreasonable to impose an obligation to stay alive on someone who is going through this situation." "Every human being can make free and informed decisions when their personal development is affected, which... includes the option of ending the intense suffering caused by a serious and irreversible bodily injury or a serious and incurable illness," it said. Watch | China opens Antarctic station south of Australia, New Zealand × The court tasked the Health Ministry with drafting regulations for the procedure within two months. For its part, the Ombudsman's office would have to draft a bill on euthanasia within six months to be approved by Congress within a year. But Roldan's lawyer Farith Simon on Wednesday insisted in a post on X, formerly, that "the sentence is immediately enforceable." Writing on social media Friday, when she learned that her case before the high court was in the final stage, Roldan said: "Several times I thought that I would not be able to see the fruits of this lawsuit, like someone who plants a tree so that someone else can sit under its shadow."

Ecuador's top court decriminalises euthanasia following lawsuit by terminally ill patient

The small south American nation of Ecuador was once perceived as a haven of peace sandwiched between cocaine-producing Colombia and Peru. Renowned as world's top exporter of bananas, it is home to the biodiverse Galapagos islands. However, in the past five years, things have taken a turn for the worse. Large ports, lax security and endemic corruption have lured foreign drug cartels to its shore.

President of Ecuador declares 60-day state of emergency | World At War

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