Cuban embassy in Ecuador closes following directive for diplomats to leave within 48 hours
The Cuban government has announced the closure of its embassy in Quito, Ecuador, following a directive from President Daniel Noboa's administration giving Cuban diplomats just 48 hours to leave the country. This abrupt expulsion has intensified tensions between the two nations, with the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Minrex) criticizing the decision as "unilateral and unfriendly." The embassy's operations officially ceased at 10 AM local time on Saturday, March 7. In a communique, Minrex expressed deep regret over the actions taken by the Ecuadorian government, stating that the decision undermines the historically positive bilateral relations that have existed between Cuba... [Continue Reading]
Cuba closes Quito embassy after Ecuador’s Daniel Noboa expels its diplomats
Noboa's government gave Cuba's diplomats 48 hours to leave Ecuador, though it did not provide an explanation. [Continue Reading]
Gold Coast Mayor confirms no ratepayer funds used for visit to Mar-a-Lago with Donald Trump before $1.5 billion development deal
The Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate, has stated that no ratepayer funds were utilized during his recent visit to Mar-a-Lago, where he met with former U.S. President Donald Trump and his son, Eric Trump. This visit occurred just prior to the announcement of a significant $1.5 billion deal orchestrated by Australian property developer David Young, CEO of Altus, to construct a Trump-branded tower in Surfers Paradise, located on the Gold Coast. Mayor Tate clarified in an interview with ABC News that he was not solicited for any promises regarding the approval of the forthcoming development application for the Trump Tower.... [Continue Reading]
Ecuadorean troops find 35m-long 'narco-sub' hidden in nature reserve
Ecuador's military says the drug-trafficking submersible was loaded with fuel and "ready to go". [Continue Reading]
Ecuador and US forces launch joint operations to combat drug trafficking and terrorist organizations in Ecuador
In a coordinated effort, Ecuadorean and US forces have initiated operations aimed at combatting drug trafficking in Ecuador. This decisive action, announced by the US military’s Southern Command, is part of a broader strategy to tackle what are termed designated terrorist organizations involved in the drug trade. The announcement comes shortly after Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa clarified that these operations mark a "new phase" in Ecuador's ongoing battle against drug cartels, which have significantly escalated their activities in the region. He emphasized that approximately 70% of the world’s cocaine is currently routed through Ecuador’s extensive port system, highlighting the country's... [Continue Reading]
Ecuador and US Launch Joint Operations to Combat Drug Trafficking and Narco-Terrorism
Recent military actions have unfolded as Ecuador and the United States embark on joint operations targeting drug trafficking and narco-terrorism. The US Southern Command announced these initiatives, designed to counteract the growing violence linked to drug trafficking within Ecuador. This development follows an alarming surge in drug-related crime in Ecuador, primarily fueled by cocaine shipments from neighbouring Colombia and Peru, which constitute about 70 percent of global cocaine production. The offensive signifies a critical escalatory move by both nations in addressing the escalating crisis. The operations commenced shortly after a statement from Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa, who emphasized the need... [Continue Reading]
