Ecuador's Anti Narcotics Leap: A Test of US Latin America Cooperation The joint operation by the US and Ecuador against alleged drug smuggling boats in the Eastern Pacific has generated a range of reactions, from optimism to skepticism.
The destruction of an allegedly narco terrorist vessel is a significant blow to transnational crime syndicates, but it also raises questions about the effectiveness of Washington's anti drug policies in Latin America.
The operation was conducted under the umbrella of "Shield of the Americas," a US led coalition formed during President Donald Trump's administration.