The United States and Ecuadorian military launched joint strikes against narco terrorists in Ecuador this week.
U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced the effort on X, stating that the operations are a “powerful example of the commitment of partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to combat the scourge of narco-terrorism.” SOUTHCOM added that the countries are “taking decisive action to confront narco-terrorists who have long inflicted terror, violence, and corruption on citizens throughout the hemisphere.”
Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Commander of U.S. Southern Command, said in a statement, “We commend the men and women of the Ecuadorian armed forces for their unwavering commitment to this fight, demonstrating courage and resolve through continued actions against narco-terrorists in their country.”
Last year, President Trump designated cartels as terrorist entities. According to an executive order on the matter, cartels have “engaged in a campaign of violence and terror throughout the Western Hemisphere that has not only destabilized countries with significant importance for our national interests but also flooded the United States with deadly drugs, violent criminals, and vicious gangs.”
“Their activities, proximity to, and incursions into the physical territory of the United States pose an unacceptable national security risk to the United States,” the order adds.
In November, War Secretary announced the launch of Operation Southern Spear, targeting narco-terrorists. “President Trump ordered action—and the Department of War is delivering,” Hegseth said. “Led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and [SOUTHCOM], this mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people. The Western Hemisphere is America’s neighborhood—and we will protect it.”
