Rubio seeks $45 million in security funding for Ecuador

Key facts

• Senator Marco Rubio is seeking $45 million in security funding for Ecuador.
• The funding is intended to help Ecuador combat drug trafficking.
• Rubio defended US strikes on boats.
• Rubio warned of the threat posed by drug cartels.
• Peru will join the U.S. coalition against drug cartels, known as the "Shield of the Americas."

Senator Marco Rubio is advocating for $45 million in security assistance to be allocated to Ecuador to bolster its efforts against drug trafficking. Rubio has publicly defended US actions, including strikes on boats, as part of these efforts, emphasizing the significant threat posed by organized crime.

Following Rubio's visit, Peru announced it will join the U.S. coalition against drug cartels, known as the "Shield of the Americas." This initiative brings together leaders from Latin America in a campaign against drug cartels, as framed by US President Donald Trump.