The Trump administration has adopted a firm approach towards drug trafficking. At a joint press conference in Ecuador, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that President Donald Trump intends to initiate a “war” against narco-terrorists
The Trump administration has adopted a firm approach toward drug trafficking. During a joint press conference in Ecuador, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that President Donald Trump aims to launch a “war” against narco-terrorists.
“It’s a war against killers. It’s a conflict of fear. These individuals aren’t just drug traffickers; they’re narco-terrorists who instill terror in the countries where they operate,” Rubio expressed.
He noted that the U.S. is prepared to assist Ecuador in combating drug traffickers. However, he emphasized that the relationship between the two nations is not solely focused on security. Rubio pointed out that the U.S. is actively looking to strengthen “vibrant economic ties” with Ecuador as well.
The announcement coincided with the U.S. identifying two groups, Los Ceneros and Los Lobos, as foreign terrorist organizations, both of which originated in Ecuador. The U.S. has also committed $13.7 million to help fight drugs and crime, along with providing unmanned aerial vehicle systems worth $6 million to the Ecuadorian Navy.
Rubio highlighted how this designation allows for increased cooperation in intelligence sharing, which could lead to effective actions against these threats.
He also touched on the situation in Venezuela, stressing that despite claims from the UN regarding the country’s lack of involvement in drug trafficking, the reality is different. “I don’t care what the UN is saying. They don’t know what they’re talking about. Maduro is facing serious charges in New York,” Rubio remarked.
Rubio mentioned that the U.S. aims to disrupt cartel operations more forcefully. Earlier this week, U.S. Marines conducted a significant strike against cartel-related vessels associated with Venezuela, marking a shift in the administration’s approach to international drug trafficking. This action resulted in the deaths of 11 members of Tren de Aragua, which was designated as a terrorist entity by the Trump administration in February.
Overall, this serves as a warning to anyone thinking of bringing drugs into the U.S., with Trump stating, “Be careful!”
