Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has called for increased support from the United States and the international community to help Ecuador combat a surge in gang violence. According to Rubio, Ecuador's strategic location makes its security vital for the stability of the entire hemisphere.

"The reason for this is simple: Ecuador’s central location and size make its security and stability critical to the security and stability of the hemisphere as a whole," Rubio stated. He emphasized that gangs in Ecuador collaborate with Mexican and Colombian cartels, exacerbating issues related to drug trafficking and criminal activities that impact American society.

Rubio highlighted existing efforts under the bipartisan U.S.-Ecuador Partnership Act of 2022, which aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations. He proposed further measures including updating the extradition treaty with Ecuador, increasing funds for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, and involving the U.S. Department of Defense in rebuilding Ecuador's military capabilities.

"I am introducing new legislation to accomplish all three goals," Rubio announced.

Additionally, Rubio urged the U.S. Department of State to engage with the Organization of American States under its Inter-American Democratic Charter to develop a comprehensive response to Ecuador's crisis.

He also called on the Biden Administration to adopt a firmer stance against governments that empower gangs in Ecuador. "This means ceasing to appease Venezuela’s illegitimate narco-regime," he said, adding that it also involves pressuring Colombian President Gustavo Petro, whose "Total Peace" plan has allegedly empowered terrorists and cocaine traffickers near Ecuador’s northern border.