Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa seeks military assistance from the US, Europe, and Brazil to combat rising gang violence. He requests that US President Trump designate Ecuadorian gangs as terrorist organizations, while also ensuring compliance with local laws. Despite a reported decrease in murder rates, Noboa faces criticism over his aggressive tactics. The success of his security strategies remains a critical consideration for voters ahead of the upcoming election.
Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has called for the support of the US, European, and Brazilian militaries in combating criminal gangs within the country. He urged US President Donald Trump to classify Ecuadorian gangs as terrorist organizations, similar to actions taken regarding certain Mexican and Venezuelan cartels. Noboa assured that Ecuadorian laws would be upheld in his collaboration with Erik Prince, a Trump associate and founder of the private military company Blackwater.
Ecuador has witnessed a significant increase in violence as gangs vie for control over drug trafficking routes, with the nation serving as a crucial conduit for global cocaine trafficking. As Noboa approaches a run-off election scheduled for April 13, he emphasizes that security remains a critical concern for voters. During his administration, he has aggressively pursued gangs and increased military presence in urban areas, despite facing criticism for heavy-handed tactics.
Over the past year, the murder rate in Ecuador has decreased by 16%, yet it remains alarmingly higher than in past years. January 2025 recorded the highest number of monthly killings, with 781 incidents. In an interview, Noboa commented, “We need to have more soldiers to fight this war,” underscoring the necessity for international assistance to curtail the activities of what he regards as “international narco-terrorist” groups.
Noboa has actively directed his foreign ministry to engage with allied nations for security support while seeking parliamentary approval for constitutional amendments that would allow foreign military bases in Ecuador. His stance advocates for a fortified approach against drug trafficking, yet it raises questions regarding international intervention and cooperation.
On the alliance with Erik Prince, Noboa highlighted the need for experienced advisors in unconventional warfare. He clarified that he does not desire mercenaries but rather special forces from the US, Europe, and Brazil to assist Ecuador in its struggle against organized crime. Public opinions on this partnership are mixed, with concerns regarding potential human rights abuses due to Prince’s controversial history.
Amidst calls for international military support, Noboa condemned the actions of cartels, narrating severe human rights violations they perpetrate in the nation. He stated that the armed forces are acting proportionately, noting a concerning disparity between trained military personnel and armed gang members. Critics argue that his assertive strategies have not sufficiently mitigated violence, citing the increase in murder rates.
Noboa’s opponent, Luisa González, criticized his effectiveness, claiming he has not fulfilled his pledges regarding safety improvement within a reasonable time frame. As political tensions rise, Noboa acknowledged that rising violence is a common pre-election phenomenon but insisted that coordinated international efforts are essential to counteract transnational crime.
Highlighting the economic impact of drug trafficking and illegal mining in Ecuador, which contribute to an annual revenue of approximately $30 billion, Noboa urged countries with significant drug consumption to take more action against trafficking. He also addressed the migrant crisis driven by violence and unemployment, offering to welcome Ecuadorian returnees while providing them with job training.
As he prepares for the forthcoming election against González, Noboa’s focus remains on presenting solutions to poverty and unemployment while emphasizing stability and economic recovery within Ecuador. His administration’s response to crime and violence will significantly influence public perception and voter sentiment in the upcoming election.
In conclusion, President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador is seeking international military collaboration to address the escalating violence from criminal gangs in the country. As he positions security as a top election issue, Noboa advocates for support from the US, Europe, and Brazil while navigating the complexities of constitutional changes to facilitate foreign military bases. Facing criticism for his methods yet highlighting economic challenges tied to drug trafficking, his leadership and strategies will be pivotal in influencing voter decisions in the approaching election.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
