"Escalating Drug-Gang Violence in Ecuador Sparks Concerns for Regional Impact"

Ecuador is facing a surge in drug-gang violence, prompting President Daniel Noboa to declare a state of internal armed conflict and seek international assistance. The gangs, seeking new drug trafficking routes, have become more powerful than the state, leading to an escalation in violence, including attacks on police officers and a public television station. Experts warn that similar violence could spread to other Latin American countries if not addressed, and suggest hardline measures similar to those implemented in El Salvador or elements of Plan Colombia as potential solutions. The crisis not only affects Ecuador's stability but also contributes to migration flows and poses a significant security threat to the region.