Rubio asserts US might obliterate international criminal organizations if necessary

Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US may take aggressive measures against foreign crime groups, potentially in collaboration with other countries. During a visit to Ecuador, he mentioned that these countries will assist in locating these individuals and taking action if necessary. Additionally, the US will designate two of Ecuador’s largest criminal gangs, Los Lobos and Los Choneros, as foreign terrorist organizations. This announcement comes after a US strike on a boat in the Caribbean Sea, which resulted in the deaths of 11 drug traffickers. Rubio also addressed the possibility of “unilateral execution” by US forces against smugglers from countries like Mexico and Ecuador. He emphasized that cooperative governments will help identify smugglers. Furthermore, President Donald Trump stated that the military operation targeted members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua who were transporting illicit narcotics towards the US. However, legal experts suggest that the strike may have violated international human rights and maritime law. In response, the defense department accused two Venezuelan military aircraft of flying near a US vessel, which they considered a highly provocative act. Additionally, Rubio announced that Washington will provide $13.5 million in security aid and $6 million in drone technology to Ecuador to combat drug trafficking. Violence in Ecuador has increased as criminal gangs fight for control over lucrative cocaine routes, with approximately 70% of the world’s cocaine passing through the country. The Ecuadorian President, Daniel Noboa, supports the designation of Los Lobos and Los Choneros as terrorist groups and hopes for US and European military support. This designation will enable the US to target assets and properties associated with these groups and share intelligence with the Ecuadorian government. Carta

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx23nzwjnwwo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss