Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has sought military aid from the US, Brazil, and European countries to tackle the escalating violence from drug gangs. Despite being one of Latin America’s historically safer nations, Ecuador now faces a surge in crime linked to drug trafficking, prompting Noboa to campaign aggressively for security measures ahead of the April elections. His proposal entails overcoming substantial political and legal obstacles, particularly from his opponents.
Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has formally requested military assistance from the United States, Brazil, and European nations to combat escalating violence attributed to drug gangs. In a recent BBC interview, he emphasized the need for international troops, specifically mentioning armies and special forces from these countries as crucial allies in his country’s fight against crime.
The nation, which was once considered one of Latin America’s safer locales, has become a significant transit hub for cocaine from Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. The influx of narcotics has resulted in the emergence of various cartels and gangs, leading to increased incidents of kidnapping, extortion, and illegal mining, thereby soaring violence levels across Ecuador. Noboa described the current situation as an “unconventional, urban guerrilla war” requiring more military personnel to restore order.
As the April elections approach, security has risen to the forefront of political discourse, with Noboa campaigning on a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal organizations. Amidst graphic violence, which includes public displays of dismembered bodies and mass shootings, he has proposed several radical solutions, including the potential deployment of foreign troops.
Additionally, Noboa’s recent collaboration with Erik Prince, founder of the controversial military contractor Blackwater, signifies a shift in his approach to security. While he confirmed that Prince’s role is advisory and not aimed at bringing mercenaries, the proposal raises ethical concerns. Noboa faces significant obstacles in actualizing his vision, notably legal challenges like the need for international agreements and Ecuador’s prohibition on foreign military bases.
His left-wing opponent, Luisa Gonzalez, likely opposes such initiatives. Gonzalez, a political ally of former President Rafael Correa, whose administration expelled US troops from a critical base in Manta in 2009, would likely inhibit Noboa’s foreign troop aspirations if she wins the election.
In summary, Ecuador’s call for international military assistance reflects an urgent response to a surge in violence linked to drug trafficking. President Noboa’s request for help from the US and European troops encapsulates a broader struggle against crime that has intensified within the country. However, significant political, legal, and logistical challenges loom over his proposal, particularly with contrasting stances among political rivals ahead of the crucial elections.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
