Ecuador crackdown: 75,000 troops patrolling four provinces amid sweeping crime ops and curfew. A country in security crisis mode, with Galápagos ahead of the loop.
A concise look at five distinctive US towns—Homer (Alaska), Bayfield (Wisconsin), Abiquiu (New Mexico), Telluride (Colorado), and Maine’s coast—highlighting landscape, local culture, and must-visit spots as described by a seasoned traveler.
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.
Two aircraft have been involved in separate incidents. One aircraft has gone down in western Iraq, with the other landing safely. Meanwhile, the U.S. has conducted targeted operations in Ecuador to dismantle narco-terrorist networks, emphasizing ongoing cooperation in regional security efforts.
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.
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.
Since early September, the US has conducted over 40 naval strikes targeting suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, raising the death toll to at least 157. The strikes, justified as anti-narcotics operations, face legal and ethical criticism amid questions about evidence and civilian casualties.
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.
The US military has conducted its 47th strike since September 2025 against vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, killing at least 163 people. The strikes, based on unspecified intelligence, face legal and human rights criticism, with experts questioning their legality and effectiveness.
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.
A family from Ecuador, detained in Minnesota, is appealing a judge’s decision to end their asylum claims after being held in Texas for 10 days. The case highlights tensions around immigration enforcement, with the family and advocates criticizing the detention and deportation process amid protests and legal battles.
Recent studies reveal ecosystems can recover within decades, with animals rebounding faster than trees. UNESCO sites maintain wildlife stability despite global declines, but face threats from climate change and habitat loss. Conservation efforts and genomic research are shaping future resilience strategies.
A 75-year-old industrial landfill near Dunoon has been identified as a developing temperate rainforest, with ancient woodland indicators and a thriving seagrass meadow along Holy Loch. The finding follows a three-year survey, suggesting post-industrial landscapes can host diverse ecosystems and accelerate natural recovery.
President Noboa has cited the extradition of crime bosses and large drug seizures as proof of a decisive, ongoing effort against organized crime. He has used a state of exception to broaden military and police powers as violence surges, while noting declines in poverty and presenting economic progress to lawmakers.