Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa is seeking military assistance from foreign armies, specifically from the U.S., Europe, and Brazil, to combat escalating gang violence. Noboa has initiated discussions for support, particularly in high-crime provinces. His tough stance includes controversial partnerships and nationwide crackdowns on gangs amid rising homicide rates, as he approaches a significant presidential vote.
Ecuador’s President, Daniel Noboa, is seeking international military assistance to combat escalating gang violence in the country. In a recent interview with the BBC, Noboa expressed the need for armed forces from the United States, Europe, and Brazil to join what he describes as his “war” against gangs. He previously mentioned ongoing talks for foreign military support, especially in provinces like Guayas, which are notorious for high crime rates.
Noboa’s administration has implemented extreme measures, including a nationwide crackdown on gangs, preemptive pardons for law enforcement officers engaged in combating gang activities, and declaring states of emergency. This response comes amid alarming statistics, with over 1,000 homicides reported this year, indicating Ecuador’s highest homicide rate in Latin America.
Earlier this month, Noboa announced a controversial partnership with Erik Prince, founder of the private military contractor formerly known as Blackwater, aimed at addressing narcoterrorism and illegal fishing in Ecuador. The announcement drew skepticism and criticism, with former army commander Luis Altamirano deeming the partnership “deplorable.”
President Noboa’s tactics coincide with an approaching run-off presidential vote next month, as he seeks to reinforce his tough stance on crime, a strategy that has been met with increasing criticism from human rights groups and political opponents, including Luisa Gonzalez. She has accused him of instilling fear among the populace.
Additionally, the U.S. State Department has provided Ecuador with $81 million since 2018 to support its fight against organized crime. While there is an agreement for U.S. military personnel to assist in Ecuador, they operate under US jurisdiction if deployed.
President Daniel Noboa’s call for international military assistance underscores the severity of gang violence in Ecuador. With record homicide rates and questionable past agreements with private military contractors, Noboa’s approach to crime remains polarizing. The support from the U.S. and the international community may play a crucial role in his government’s strategy while facing criticism and scrutiny from various factions within Ecuador.
Original Source: www.wral.com
