A U.S. intelligence report suggests that re-electing President Daniel Noboa is beneficial for American national security compared to challenger Luisa González. The report aligns with talks of establishing a U.S. military base in Ecuador amid rising violence and political unrest. The outcome of the election has significant implications for U.S.-Ecuador relations, particularly regarding trade and military cooperation.
The U.S. intelligence report on the imminent Ecuadorian presidential election indicates that the re-election of President Daniel Noboa aligns better with American national security interests compared to his opponent. This assessment coincides with discussions within the Trump administration regarding the establishment of a permanent U.S. military base in Ecuador to combat organized crime.
The intelligence report, finalized shortly before the election scheduled for Sunday, suggests that a victory for Noboa would benefit U.S. interests over the next four years. Last month, Noboa proposed hosting a U.S. military base, as the nation grapples with escalating urban violence and political divides.
Ecuadorians will vote on whether to continue with Noboa’s business-centric approach or revert to the leftist policies championed by Luisa González, who has ties to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This election is a continuation of the 2023 vote, where Noboa, a political novice and son of a wealthy businessman, overcame González, who is associated with former President Rafael Correa.
Following the military’s withdrawal from Ecuador in 2014 amid U.S. interference concerns, relations improved under Noboa and former President Guillermo Lasso. Noboa has declared a commitment to combatting drug cartels, asserting that “his administration is at war” against them, which he believes necessitates military cooperation with the U.S.
Recent unrest, characterized by violence and extensive criminal activity, underscores the urgency of the current electoral decision. Notably, the intelligence assessment raised alarms about González’s potential recognition of Maduro if elected, despite U.S. sanctions against him, as well as her financial backing possibly linked to him.
There exists some division among U.S. intelligence entities regarding this assessment. Some officials express differing views on González’s alleged relationships with Russia and Venezuela, regarding them as minor distinctions.
Reports suggest that Ecuador is proactively seeking to host a U.S. military base while pursuing a free trade agreement with the U.S. Moreover, plans are underway to establish a naval facility to facilitate the arrival of U.S. forces. Noboa has solicited assistance from the U.S., Brazil, and European allies in the battle against gang violence.
Ecuador’s economy is significantly intertwined with that of the United States, marked by a substantial trade relationship valued at $15.2 billion in 2023. The U.S. relies on Ecuador for various commodities, while Ecuador benefits from critical industrial imports, supporting the interconnectedness of both nations.
The recent U.S. intelligence report critically favors the re-election of President Daniel Noboa in the Ecuadorian presidential race, advocating that his victory aligns with U.S. national security goals. Amid rising violence and political tensions, this election poses a significant crossroad for Ecuador. The unfolding situation underscores the complexities of foreign relations, especially regarding U.S. interests in military collaboration and economic partnerships with Ecuador, further complicated by potential ties of González to controversial figures such as Nicolás Maduro.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
