Secretary of State Marco Rubio Defends U.S. Airstrikes on Drug-Trafficking Boats in Latin America
During a visit to Ecuador, Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the controversial strikes on suspected drug-trafficking boats, emphasizing the threat posed by Latin American cartels. The U.S. military confirmed conducting another deadly strike in the Caribbean Sea shortly after Rubio's remarks. Rubio praised a new generation of conservative leaders in the region who are aligned with President Trump and willing to take aggressive action against criminal groups.
Under the Trump administration, the U.S. has carried out airstrikes on vessels along known trafficking routes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of over 200 individuals. Despite concerns raised by rights groups, fishermen, and their families regarding the lack of evidence linking the targeted vessels to trafficking, Rubio affirmed that the operations would persist. He emphasized the importance of confronting these criminal groups to prevent them from destabilizing countries in the region.
Recent joint U.S.-Ecuador patrols have adopted a new approach, detaining crews from several boats before sinking them. This shift in tactics follows the interception and sinking of a vessel allegedly supporting drug trafficking by the Ecuadorian criminal organization Los Choneros. Rubio clarified that decisions to destroy vessels are made on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as the threat level, location, and local laws.
During his visit to Ecuador, Rubio announced the designation of the Ecuadorian gang Los Tiguerones as a terrorist organization and imposed sanctions on seven former Ecuadorian officials. This move comes after the U.S. previously labeled the "Chone Killers" as a foreign terrorist organization, an offshoot of Los Chineros. These gangs, including Los Lobos and Los Choneros, are major players in drug trafficking and extortion in Ecuador, with ties to international cartels.
Rubio's visit to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru aims to strengthen right-wing alliances and enhance U.S. influence in the region. The focus on combating drug trafficking and criminal organizations underscores the shared commitment of these countries and the U.S. to address security challenges in Latin America.