US military launches operation in Ecuador to combat drug trafficking

The US military’s Southern Command said on Tuesday that Ecuadorian and US forces launched operations against what it said were designated terrorist organizations in Ecuador.

Southern Command, which encompasses 31 countries through South and Central America and the Caribbean, said the action was aimed at combating illicit drug trafficking, but did not provide more details in a statement on X.

“Together, we are taking decisive action to confront narco-terrorists who have long inflicted terror, violence, and corruption on citizens throughout the hemisphere,” reads the statement.

Ecuador’s defense ministry said details of the offensive operations were classified.

More details soon …