US Designates Two Ecuador Gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, Boosting Security Assistance by $13.5 Million

In Quito, Ecuador, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the designation of two local criminal gangs – Los Lobos and Los Choneros – as foreign terrorist organizations. This action empowers Washington to seize assets, target associates, and share intelligence with Ecuador for potential lethal operations against these groups.

Rubio pledged $13.5 million in security assistance and $6 million in drone technology to support Ecuador’s efforts against organized crime during his meeting with President Daniel Noboa. Noboa, a close ally of the U.S. administration, has declared war on organized crime as violence in Ecuador escalates.

Previously lauded for curbing traffickers, Noboa’s initiatives, including a security agreement with U.S. private military contractor Erik Prince, have stalled lately. Approximately 70% of the world’s cocaine now transits through Ecuador, according to government data, en route from neighboring Colombia and Peru to markets in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

The escalating cartel violence has contributed to increased migration from Ecuador, causing a rise in border crossings into the United States. Noboa has urged stronger international involvement in his crackdown and proposed holding a referendum to allow foreign military bases in Ecuador for the first time since 2009, which could potentially be considered if invited by Ecuador.

Rubio’s visit to Quito follows high-level meetings in Mexico where he warned of increased U.S. military action against drug traffickers. Earlier this week, the Trump administration reportedly attacked a Venezuelan boat suspected of carrying narcotics, killing 11 individuals deemed to be members of Tren de Aragua, another designated terrorist organization.

Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello criticized the attack, questioning its legality. Rubio defended the strike, stating that anyone on a boat carrying cocaine or fentanyl bound for the United States poses an immediate threat and can be targeted by U.S. authorities.

Mexico’s Foreign Secretary Juan Ramón de la Fuente highlighted his country’s cooperation with Washington but emphasized the need to respect sovereignty during the discussions. The talks, attended by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, were described as productive despite some differences in opinion.

The new terrorist designations offer additional options for the U.S. in Ecuador, although they may present challenges for civilians. Immigration lawyers suggest that the designation could aid some asylum-seekers in proving they are victims of terrorism, but it could also penalize individuals who have paid extortion money to these groups for providing material support to terrorist organizations.

The U.S. appears to be adopting a more aggressive regional strategy, despite questions surrounding the legality of the strike against the alleged Venezuelan drug boat. Rubio described Noboa as a “willing partner” in the fight against drugs and stated that the Trump administration would not hesitate to continue strikes against groups it views as narco-terrorists.