Geopolitical Conflict
US and Ecuador intensify joint military operations against narco‑terrorists
Ecuadorian and U.S. forces continue joint operations against designated narco‑terrorist groups through mid‑March 2026, marking a new phase in Ecuador’s internal armed conflict with drug gangs.
Ecuadorian and U.S. military forces have launched and sustained joint operations against designated narco‑terrorist organizations in Ecuador since early March 2026, under the framework of U.S. Southern Command. These operations, described as a new phase in combating narcoterrorism and illegal mining, are being conducted in several provinces where gangs control drug‑trafficking routes. Ecuador’s government has imposed curfews and expanded security measures, while the U.S. provides intelligence, logistical support, and training alongside direct participation in some strikes. The campaign has intensified an ongoing internal armed conflict first declared by President Noboa in 2024, amid concerns over human rights violations and the militarization of Ecuador’s security policy.
- Status
- active
- Location
- Ecuador
- Date added
- 2026-03-26 09:23 UTC
- Last updated
- 2026-03-26 09:23 UTC
- Source
- U.S. Southern Command
- Connected threats
- Not provided