Ecuador’s President Daniel Novoa met with Army Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on Monday. They discussed collaboration between the United States and Ecuador to address issues like narco-terrorism and transnational organized crime.
Novoa’s visit to the U.S. began last week and included a four-day agenda that culminated in his meeting with Hegseth. They covered Novoa’s strategies for tackling both narco-terrorism and illegal mining operations. The Ecuadorian Presidential Palace pointed out that the U.S. is a key partner in security, trade, and diplomacy for Ecuador.
Hegseth acknowledged Novoa’s commitment to combating threats from narco-terrorism and drug trafficking networks. He emphasized that addressing these issues is a priority for both President Trump and the Army Department.
According to Hegseth, “It’s not enough just to have agreements; we need to translate those into real actions.” He underscored their focus on eliminating narco-terrorism and dismantling networks across Ecuador and Latin America.
“You have been an exemplary partner in tackling networks that jeopardize our collective security,” Hegseth expressed, thanking Novoa for his dedication.
Hegseth also noted that Trump appreciates Ecuador’s progress, stating that countries willing to take responsibility are valued partners.
Novoa expressed that his administration aims not only to fulfill its obligations in the ongoing fight against international crime but also to encourage regional cooperation. This acknowledgment highlights the complexity of aligning all countries’ efforts within the region.
He emphasized that, unfortunately, malicious forces tend to find ways to collaborate across borders.
After being re-elected in 2025, Novoa reached out to President Trump to form a security alliance to address the drug flow through Ecuador towards the U.S. Ecuador is part of Trump’s regional security initiative known as America’s Shield.
In the last year, Novoa’s government has collaborated closely with the U.S. against narco-terrorism. Earlier this year, the FBI established its first office in Ecuador. Additionally, both nations initiated a counter-narco-terrorism operation within Ecuador, resulting in a significant seizure of cocaine meant for the United States.
Ecuador’s presidential office reported that during his U.S. trip, Novoa also met with Stephen Miller, the Presidential Chief of Staff, to discuss advancements in bilateral cooperation against organized crime.
“These discussions highlight the government’s dedication to fostering strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing Ecuador’s security, investment, and development,” the Ecuadorian Presidential Ministry of Communications stated.
