U.S.Senator Marco Rubio announced on thursday, September 4, 2025, nearly $20 million in aid to Ecuador to help the country address escalating violence from drug trafficking organizations. Alongside the financial assistance, the U.S. government will designate two criminal groups, Los Lobos and Choneros, as foreign terrorist organizations.

During a visit to Quito, Rubio sharply criticized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, labeling him a “fugitive from American justice.”

The aid package includes $6 million for drones, intended to bolster EcuadorS surveillance and response capabilities. Rubio, heavily guarded during his visit to the presidential palace, stated the U.S. would assist ecuador in confronting these criminal groups,which he described as “wild animals.”

The designation of Los lobos and Choneros as foreign terrorist organizations will subject them to increased scrutiny and potential sanctions from the United States. This move aims to disrupt their operations and financial networks.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has deployed the armed Forces to combat criminal groups that have contributed to a surge in violence, transforming Ecuador into one of the most dangerous countries in the Americas.

Rubio’s visit follows a recent U.S. military operation in the Caribbean,where forces destroyed a boat allegedly used for drug trafficking by a Venezuelan band, resulting in 11 fatalities.