Ecuador is taking significant steps to bring U.S. forces into the country as President Daniel Noboa seeks international support in fighting powerful gangs. Plans obtained by CNN reveal that Ecuador is constructing a new naval facility in Manta to accommodate U.S. military personnel, with support from the U.S. Southern Command (Southcom) and the DEA.

🔹 Key Developments:

• Military Infrastructure: A new naval base in Manta, featuring barracks and administrative offices, is being built to support long-term U.S. operations.

• International Collaboration: Noboa has called for help from the U.S., Brazil, and European nations to combat Ecuador’s rising gang violence.

• Security Agreement with Trump: Noboa is set to meet with President Trump in Florida to discuss security cooperation, trade, and immigration.

• DEA-Linked Projects: U.S.-backed investments include the construction of a DEA-affiliated base and an antinarcotics special unit in Ecuador.

• Gang Violence Surge: Ecuador now has the highest homicide rate in Latin America, fueled by drug trafficking and cartel-linked violence.

The rapid construction of military facilities, alongside Ecuador’s diplomatic push, signals Noboa’s commitment to securing foreign intervention in the fight against organized crime. His efforts may hinge on the April 13 presidential runoff, where his opponent, Luisa Gonzalez, opposes foreign military presence.