United News of Bangladesh

The Trump administration has launched a joint military operation with Ecuador targeting what it calls “designated terrorist organizations,” opening a new front in its expanding anti-narcotics campaign in Latin America. US Southern Command said Ecuadorian and American forces began operations on March 3, reports Al Jazeera. General Francis Donovan described the move as a demonstration of regional commitment to combating “narco-terrorism.” Video released by the US military showed helicopters taking off and aerial surveillance footage. US officials indicated the operation is currently limited to logistical and intelligence support for Ecuadorian troops. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the two countries were taking “decisive action” against criminal networks blamed for violence across the hemisphere. President Donald Trump has increasingly labeled major drug cartels as “foreign terrorist organizations” and adopted a more militarized strategy, including aerial strikes on suspected smuggling vessels. Critics argue such actions blur the line between law enforcement and acts of war, raising concerns about civilian casualties and violations of international law. Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who has pursued a tough “iron fist” approach to crime, welcomed the cooperation, calling it a “new phase” in the fight against drug trafficking and illegal mining.