Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa said US military forces could assist his country in confronting powerful drug gangs that have fueled a surge in violence across the South American nation.

The comments come as Ecuador grapples with unprecedented levels of criminal activity linked to drug trafficking organizations that have gained significant territorial control in recent years. The country has become a key transit route for cocaine shipments from Colombia and Peru to international markets.

Ecuador declared a state of emergency in January 2024 after a series of violent incidents, including the takeover of a television station during a live broadcast by armed groups. The security crisis has prompted the government to explore various options for international assistance.

The potential involvement of US troops would represent a significant escalation in bilateral security cooperation. Ecuador and the United States have previously collaborated on counter-narcotics efforts, but the deployment of American military personnel would mark a new phase in addressing the crisis.

Drug-related violence has transformed Ecuador from one of Latin America's most peaceful countries into one of its most dangerous, with homicide rates climbing dramatically over the past several years. Criminal organizations have targeted government officials, law enforcement, and civilians while battling for territorial control.