Kathmandu — The United States Department of Defense announced Tuesday night that the United States and Ecuador have begun joint military operations targeting what officials described as “terrorist organizations” in the South American nation.
The operations appear to be part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration aimed at confronting vessels accused of transporting narcotics in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific region. The initiative reflects Washington’s intensified efforts to counter drug trafficking networks it links to regional instability and violence.
According to a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss operational matters, the joint mission demonstrates the commitment of the United States and Ecuador to combating the threat of narco-terrorism in Latin America and the Caribbean.
U.S. special operations forces are reportedly advising and supporting Ecuadorian commandos as they conduct raids on suspected drug trafficking facilities and other narcotics-related sites across the country. The official clarified that American personnel are not believed to be directly participating in the raids but are assisting Ecuadorian forces with operational planning, intelligence sharing, and logistical support.
“Together, we are taking necessary action to confront drug terrorists who have long spread violence and fear across the hemisphere,” the official said.
General Francis L. Donovan, commander of the United States Southern Command, praised the Ecuadorian Armed Forces for their commitment to the fight against drug-related militant groups. He commended their “courage and determination” in continuing operations against such organizations within their territory.
A 30-second video released by Southern Command showed helicopters flying at dawn or dusk over an unspecified area before troops were deployed. A U.S. official indicated that the footage depicted one of several raids conducted nationwide. Some operations reportedly involved close advisory support from American personnel, while others were carried out solely by Ecuadorian forces.
The official noted that in the specific incident highlighted in the video — largely involving Ecuadorian troops — it was unclear what the precise objective of the mission was or whether it achieved its intended results.
In a statement, Southern Command described the operations as a strong example of regional cooperation to counter narco-terrorism threats in Latin America and the Caribbean, though it did not provide detailed information about the missions. The White House did not immediately comment on the military activity.
