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Story summary
- On March 11, 2026, the United States established its first permanent FBI office in Quito, Ecuador, to combat rising violence.
- Ecuador reported 9,216 homicides in 2025, leading President Daniel Noboa to strengthen ties with Washington.
- A military offensive against illegal activities will commence on March 15, deploying 10,000 troops and substantial funding in three violent provinces.
- Analysts express skepticism about the effectiveness of increased U.S. involvement, referencing the limited success of previous military operations.
- Noboa's approach marks a shift from constitutional reform to bilateral agreements after voters rejected military base proposals.
