U.S.-Ecuador Security Push: In Quito, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio backed continued deadly strikes on suspected drug-trafficking boats, saying operations are assessed case-by-case and that Washington will “still blow up ships if need be.” He also announced he’ll seek $45 million more for Ecuador to fight cartels, alongside extra equipment and support for the coastguard, after the U.S. destroyed multiple vessels in the Pacific tied to alleged smuggling networks. Terror Designations: Rubio said the U.S. is escalating pressure by designating Ecuador’s gang Los Tiguerones as a foreign terrorist organization, aiming to cut off financing and dismantle networks. Ecuador Courts: Ecuador’s judiciary sentenced former President Abdala Bucaram and his son to 9 years, 4 months in a COVID-era corruption case involving fraudulent medical supply sales. Regional Politics: Rubio’s South America swing also included Peru, where he met President Keiko Fujimori as Peru joined the U.S.-led “Shield of the Americas” anti-cartel coalition. Climate Watch: El Niño impacts are already hitting Ecuador’s fisheries, with crews traveling farther as tuna move to cooler waters.