Ecuador ‘open’ to US military taking ‘control’ of crackdowns on illegal operations, president says

CNN - Apr 15th, 2025
Open on CNN

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa expressed openness to amending the country's constitution to allow US military presence aimed at tackling illegal mining and gang operations. This potential shift in policy was revealed during an exclusive interview with CNN's Fernando del Rincón. Historically, Ecuador's constitution has prohibited foreign military bases, indicating a significant potential change in national policy. This development, if realized, could mark a new era of international cooperation in Ecuador's efforts to combat crime and illegal activities within its borders.

The implications of allowing US troops into Ecuador are far-reaching. It suggests a possible strengthening of US-Ecuador relations and a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing security in the region. Such a move could bring about debates over national sovereignty and the extent of foreign military influence in domestic affairs. Additionally, this decision could have political ramifications, both domestically and internationally, as it might influence Ecuador's diplomatic relations with other countries in the region that are wary of US military involvement.

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RATING

6.6
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article presents a timely and relevant topic concerning potential constitutional changes in Ecuador to allow US military involvement. It accurately reports President Noboa's openness to such changes and the historical context of Ecuador's constitutional ban on foreign military bases. However, the article lacks balance, as it primarily focuses on Noboa's perspective without exploring opposing viewpoints or public reactions. The reliance on a single source limits the depth of information, and the article would benefit from greater transparency regarding the basis for its claims and the potential implications of the proposed changes. While the article is clear and readable, it could improve engagement and provoke more meaningful debate by including diverse perspectives and detailed analysis of the issue's broader implications. Overall, the story provides a solid foundation but could be enhanced by a more comprehensive exploration of the topic.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story accurately reports that Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa is open to changing the country's constitution to allow US troops to help combat illegal operations. This is consistent with Noboa's public statements and proposals. The claim that Ecuador's constitution historically bars foreign military bases is also accurate, as Article 5 of the constitution prohibits such bases. However, the story lacks specific details about Noboa's exact statements and intentions, which would strengthen its accuracy. Additionally, the reasons for allowing US troops, such as combating illegal mining and gang activity, are plausible but require more detailed evidence to verify their effectiveness.

6
Balance

The story presents a singular perspective, primarily focusing on President Noboa's stance without exploring opposing viewpoints or reactions from other political figures or the public. While it highlights the constitutional aspect and the potential involvement of US troops, it omits the perspectives of those who might oppose such changes, such as local communities or political opponents. Including a broader range of viewpoints would provide a more balanced representation of the issue.

7
Clarity

The article is clear in its presentation of the main claims regarding President Noboa's openness to constitutional changes and the historical context of foreign military bases in Ecuador. However, it could benefit from a more structured presentation of information, particularly regarding the potential consequences and public reactions. The language is neutral, but the lack of detailed explanation in some areas may affect comprehension for readers unfamiliar with Ecuadorian politics.

8
Source quality

The story cites an exclusive interview with CNN's Fernando del Rincón, a reputable source, which enhances its credibility. However, relying on a single source limits the depth of information and perspectives. Additional sources, such as statements from Ecuadorian government officials or expert analyses, would improve the article's reliability and provide a more comprehensive view of the situation.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of providing detailed context about the constitutional process and the implications of allowing US troops into Ecuador. It does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or the methodology behind the claims made. Greater transparency about the basis for these claims and the potential impact on Ecuador's sovereignty and security would enhance the article's credibility.

Sources

  1. https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Ecuador_2021
  2. https://www.jurist.org/news/2024/09/ecuador-president-proposes-constitutional-reform-permitting-establishment-of-foreign-military-bases/
  3. https://peoplesdispatch.org/2024/09/25/noboa-wants-to-bring-foreign-military-bases-back-to-ecuador/
  4. http://constitutionnet.org/news/ecuadors-president-proposes-constitutional-change-remove-ban-foreign-military-bases
  5. https://peoplesdispatch.org/2025/02/20/a-new-haiti-daniel-noboa-asks-for-foreign-troops-to-enter-ecuador/