US and Ecuador Forces Sink Floating Refueling Station in Eastern Pacific

United States forces, in coordination with the government of Ecuador, intercepted and sank a vessel operating as a floating refueling station for drug trafficking operations in the eastern Pacific. The operation was conducted by the Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere under the direction of US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) General Francis L. Donovan. Marines and sailors from the USS San Antonio boarded and searched the vessel, escorted the crew to Ecuador, and subsequently sank the ship. US intelligence and the Treasury Department had previously identified and sanctioned the vessel for supporting the organization Los Choneros.

General Donovan stated that the operation represents a decisive blow to the logistics of narco-terrorists and demonstrates the capabilities of the Coalition Against Cartels of the Americas. CNN Brasil noted that this is the third such action this week following a two month period of inactivity. The network also reported that US forces have killed at least 227 people and destroyed 69 vessels as part of a broader campaign to stop drug flows into the United States.

Separately, Infobae reported that Ecuador and Colombia are negotiating the creation of a joint binational base on their shared border. This project, discussed during General Donovan's visit to San Lorenzo and Tumaco, aims to increase military pressure on drug trafficking organizations. The specific location and command structure of the proposed base have not yet been finalized.