Daniel Noboa, Ecuador’s president since 2023 at 35,’s back in the headlines as Ecuador heads into fresh anti‑crime pushes and regional politics shift. bio: businessman turned politician, 48th president.
Latin American countries Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico are increasing cooperation with the US on anti-narcotics efforts. Bolivia has resumed DEA operations after nearly 20 years, Colombia has intensified military actions, and Mexico has stepped up efforts following the death of cartel leader El Mencho. These shifts mark a regional security realignment.
Colombia's security operations target criminal groups amid ongoing violence, while Ecuador increases tariffs on Colombian imports over border security and drug trafficking concerns. The dispute has led to trade disruptions and heightened diplomatic tensions, with both sides accusing each other of insufficient cooperation. The situation remains tense as regional stability is at risk.
The United States and Israel have launched joint major combat operations against Iran, targeting its missile industry, navy, intelligence and government symbols. President Trump has justified the strikes as eliminating imminent threats and called on Iranians to rise; Iran has responded with missile attacks on Israeli and US targets, killing civilians and deepening regional escalation.
On March 3, US and Ecuadorian forces launched joint operations against designated terrorist groups in Ecuador, marking a significant escalation in US efforts to combat narco-terrorism in Latin America. The operation aims to target drug trafficking and organized crime amid rising violence in Ecuador.
Ecuador expelled Cuban diplomats after declaring them persona non grata, citing unfriendly actions. Cuba condemned the move, criticizing it as unjustified and damaging regional relations. The incident occurs amid increased US influence and regional political tensions, with Ecuador aligning closer to US policies and Trump’s administration.
As of March 21, 2026, Cuba faces a severe energy crisis worsened by a US oil embargo following the January abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Cuba's main oil supplier. President Trump has publicly threatened a "friendly takeover" of Cuba, while bilateral talks continue amid widespread blackouts and economic hardship affecting 10 million Cubans.
President Trump has announced a series of aggressive military initiatives in Latin America, including a coalition against drug cartels and threats toward Cuba. The US is increasing its military presence and operations across the region, emphasizing a hard power approach to regional security and influence.
Gabriel Kast was inaugurated as Chile's president, promising an emergency government focused on tackling crime, illegal migration, and economic revival. His election marks a shift to the right amid regional conservative gains, with regional leaders and US allies attending his swearing-in. Kast's policies include border security and law enforcement measures.
Ecuador has announced a large-scale military operation targeting organized crime, including drug trafficking and illegal mining, in three provinces. A curfew from March 15-30 is in effect to facilitate troop movements and reduce civilian casualties, with support from U.S. forces. The operation marks a significant escalation in the country's fight against crime.
Ecuador has intensified its crackdown on organized crime, deploying military force and imposing curfews in key provinces. Over 250 arrests have been made amid ongoing battles between drug cartels and government efforts to restore security, with joint US support. The operations mark a significant escalation in Ecuador's fight against violence.
Colombia, Ecuador, and Mexico jointly arrested Ecuadorian fugitive Angel Aguilar, linked to drug trafficking and the 2023 assassination of presidential candidate Villavicencio. The operation highlights regional cooperation against transnational crime, with Aguilar extradited to Colombia. Tensions persist over border security and sovereignty issues.
Kristi Noem visited Guyana with Corey Lewandowski, raising questions about her role and relationships. Despite her recent DHS ouster, she continues Latin America diplomacy as a special envoy, amid scrutiny over her travel, Lewandowski's presence, and a controversial US-funded ad campaign.