The US State Department has officially designated two Ecuadorian criminal groups as foreign terrorist organizations. This announcement was made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his visit to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. The designation marks a significant step in addressing transnational criminal activities affecting the region.

The decision to designate these groups as foreign terrorist organizations underscores the severity of their criminal activities and the threat they pose not only to Ecuador but also to regional stability. This move is expected to enhance international cooperation in combating organized crime and terrorism.

According to a State Department official, the two Ecuadorian groups have been involved in a range of illicit activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violence. By designating them as foreign terrorist organizations, the US aims to disrupt their operations and dismantle their networks.

Ecuadorian authorities have welcomed the US designation, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in addressing transnational criminal threats. The Ecuadorian government has been actively working to combat organized crime within its borders and sees this designation as a significant step in the fight against criminal groups.

This development highlights the growing recognition of the link between criminal organizations and terrorism, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to address these complex security challenges. The US designation of the two Ecuadorian criminal groups as foreign terrorist organizations reflects a commitment to strengthening global counterterrorism measures and disrupting illicit networks.