Ecuador’s political turmoil escalated this week after a humanitarian convoy led by President Daniel Noboa came under attack in Cotacachi, Imbabura province. The convoy — which included UN and EU diplomats, as well as Italy’s ambassador and a top Vatican envoy — was ambushed by about 350 people armed with Molotov cocktails. Seventeen soldiers were taken hostage, while at least 12 others were injured in the clashes.

Government spokeswoman Carolina Jaramillo said the group responsible “did not represent Ecuadorians” but were “criminals.” President Noboa, who shared images of shattered windows and damaged vehicles, denounced the attack as an act meant to halt Ecuador’s progress.

The incident comes as nationwide protests intensify over Noboa’s decision to cut fuel subsidies, sparking an indefinite strike led by Ecuador’s largest Indigenous rights group, Conaie. Violence has already claimed lives — Conaie reported that community member Efrain Fuerez was shot dead during demonstrations, blaming state forces and calling it a “state crime.”

International leaders, including Italy’s ambassador Giovanni Davoli and UN human rights officials, condemned the violence and urged for dialogue. Meanwhile, Noboa has blamed the Venezuelan cartel Tren de Aragua for infiltrating the unrest, warning that protesters who break the law could face terrorism charges carrying 30-year sentences.

With a state of emergency declared in eight provinces and curfews imposed in five, Ecuador stands on the brink of further escalation. The crisis is not only a political standoff but also a test of how far Noboa’s government is willing to go against long-powerful Indigenous movements — groups that have historically toppled presidents.