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In early September 2025, the US military conducted a lethal strike on a Venezuelan drug-smuggling boat in international waters, killing 11 people linked to the Tren de Aragua cartel. This marked a significant escalation in US anti-drug operations, accompanied by deployment of warships and F-35 jets to the Caribbean. Venezuela's President Maduro condemned the actions, mobilizing forces amid fears of potential conflict.
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Recent clashes in Ecuador's prisons, especially in Machala and Esmeraldas, have resulted in multiple inmate deaths, injuries, and escapes. The violence is linked to gang conflicts tied to drug trafficking, with authorities struggling to regain control amid a history of deadly riots and organized crime influence.
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Protests in Ecuador over fuel subsidy cuts have continued for over two weeks, with clashes resulting in injuries and a protester death. The government declared a state of emergency, and violence has increased, including attacks on President Noboa's motorcade. International calls for dialogue have been made.
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Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa was unharmed after his motorcade was targeted by protesters in central Ecuador amid violent demonstrations over fuel subsidies. Five people were detained, and authorities are investigating whether gunfire was involved. The unrest is linked to economic reforms and rising violence.
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Ecuador's ongoing protests against fuel subsidy removal have led to violence, with one protester killed and hundreds detained. President Noboa has declared a state of emergency, deploying thousands of troops amid clashes with Indigenous groups demanding the subsidy be restored. The protests are centered in northern provinces and Quito.
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Ecuador is experiencing increased violence, including bridge bombings, car bombs, and protests linked to criminal groups and government crackdowns. Indigenous protests and criminal attacks are escalating amid security operations and political tensions, with ongoing investigations and military responses. The situation remains volatile as authorities seek stability.
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Recent protests in Ireland have turned violent following a sexual assault case involving an asylum seeker. Clashes with police erupted outside a Dublin hotel housing asylum applicants, echoing past riots linked to anti-immigrant sentiment. The government condemns the violence amid ongoing societal tensions.
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On November 16, 2025, Ecuadorians voted against allowing foreign military bases, including US bases, with 61% opposing the measure. This referendum defeat is a political setback for President Daniel Noboa, who supports foreign cooperation to combat drug trafficking. Concurrently, Wilmer Chavarria, leader of the Los Lobos cartel, was arrested in Spain after faking his death and coordinating criminal activities from Europe.
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A riot at Ecuador's Machala prison has resulted in 27 deaths, mostly by hanging or asphyxiation, linked to ongoing gang violence. The violence occurred during a planned transfer to a new maximum-security facility, highlighting escalating prison unrest and organized crime influence. The incident follows recent deadly riots across the country’s prisons.
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The Biden administration is set to announce exemptions on tariffs for certain food imports, including beef, citrus, coffee, and bananas, aiming to reduce consumer prices amid political pressure and recent election results highlighting affordability concerns. The move signals a shift from previous tariff policies.