Published on, Sept. 5 -- September 5, 2025 3:35 AM

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled two Ecuadorian cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations." He made the announcement during a visit to Ecuador. The gangs, Los Lobos and Los Choneros, are involved in drug trafficking and violent crimes. Rubio called the fight against these groups a "war on terror."

Rubio met with Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa and Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld in Quito. They discussed stronger cooperation on security and migration. The US pledged $19 million to help Ecuador boost its defenses. The funds include money for general security and drones for the navy.

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