US announces increased cooperation with Ecuador and Colombia against drug trafficking

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced increased cooperation with Ecuador and Colombia to combat drug trafficking cartels. During a visit to Quito, Rubio stated he would request an additional $45 million from the US Congress to support these efforts in Ecuador, praising President Daniel Noboa as a key ally in the region.

Under the direction of President Donald Trump, the US military has been conducting operations in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific since 2025, targeting suspected drug-smuggling vessels. Rubio noted that the US will continue to use force against ships if necessary, emphasizing that allies like Ecuador and Colombia are now more willing to participate in operations within their own territorial waters.

These military actions remain controversial. The United Nations has criticized lethal airstrikes in international waters, arguing they are not permissible under international law. Additionally, discussions regarding potential US military equipment exports to Colombia have surfaced, though specific details regarding the types of equipment or contractual mechanisms remain unverified.