Rubio Calls Ecuador 'Most Aggressive Partner' in US Anti-Drug Push
Rubio lauds Ecuador as key ally in counterdrug efforts, announces new funding and terror designations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday described Ecuador as the "most aggressive partner" in Washington's campaign against drug trafficking and transnational criminal networks, during a visit to Quito.
Speaking at Carondelet Palace after meeting President Daniel Noboa, Rubio said both nations' elite forces are already operating jointly to dismantle narco networks. He praised Ecuador's leadership in the "Shield of the Americas" and the US-led counter-cartel coalition.
Rubio announced plans to request an additional $45 million from Congress to support Ecuador's efforts, along with a $10 million initiative targeting illegal gold mining, gang recruitment, illicit finance, and drug trafficking by land and sea.
He also revealed new sanctions against 15 entities and individuals, and the designation of 10 commercial fishing vessels as blocked property for facilitating narcotics trafficking. Additionally, Rubio said the US would designate the Ecuadorian gang Los Tiburones as a foreign terrorist organization.
Ecuador's Foreign Minister Roberto Kury echoed the sentiment, stating that his country has taken a "firm, brave, and determined role" in confronting organized crime that threatens institutions and families.
The visit is part of Rubio's three-nation South America tour aimed at strengthening security cooperation with conservative leaders aligned with the Trump administration. Ecuador declared an internal armed conflict in 2024 after a surge of violence, designating 22 criminal gangs as terrorist groups.