The United States and Ecuador launched joint military operations against “designated terrorist organizations” in the South American nation, U.S. Southern Command announced late Tuesday.
In its statement, SOUTHCOM did not specify which terrorist organizations were being targeted — only that they were narco-terrorists.
“We commend the men and women of the Ecuadorian armed forces for their unwavering commitment to this fight, demonstrating courage and resolve through continued actions against narco-terrorists in their country,” SOUTHCOM Commander Gen. Francis Donovan said.
A 30-second video accompanied the announcement, featuring unclassified footage of a helicopter taking off and picking up soldiers.
It appears the U.S. Army Special Forces branch is serving an advisory role to Ecuadorian soldiers who are physically carrying out the operations against drug trafficking, according to the New York Times. The U.S. is believed to be providing intelligence and logistical support to Ecuador as the latter raids suspected drug shipment facilities and other drug-related sites across the country.
The joint operations mark a significant expansion of the U.S. military strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.
An estimated 150 people, whom the Trump administration claims are narco-terrorists, have been killed in at least 44 airstrikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels. The strikes started in early September.
The Pentagon later revealed the strikes were part of a campaign, known as “Operation Southern Spear.” The name was referenced in SOUTHCOM’s statement about the joint U.S.-Ecuador operations.
This is the latest instance of the U.S. military getting involved in international affairs.
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Last weekend, the U.S. started conducting joint strikes with Israel on Iran as part of “Operation Epic Fury.” The mission is expected to last up to four or five weeks, although it could extend longer.
Almost a week before, the U.S. provided critical intelligence to Mexican forces that killed Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.” The cartel boss, who was once Mexico’s most wanted man, was buried on Monday.