Ecuador has released a survivor from a U.S. strike on a suspected drug-trafficking submersible, confirming there was no evidence of a crime against him. The man, identified as Andrés Fernando Tufiño, was declared in good health after medical evaluations, according to Ecuador’s attorney general’s office. U.S. authorities had repatriated him following the incident, which claimed the lives of two crew members.
Details of the Incident
A U.S. Navy helicopter transported the survivors from the semi-submersible to a Navy vessel. The attack occurred amid U.S. operations aimed at combating drug trafficking in the Caribbean region. According to reports, U.S. warships have been active off the coast of Venezuela since August, targeting vessels suspected of drug trafficking. President Trump stated that the strike targeted a large drug-carrying submarine intended for the United States.
Impact and Casualties
- Two crew members were killed in the U.S. strike.
- Andrés Fernando Tufiño was found without any pending criminal cases.
- A Colombian survivor arrived in Colombia with severe injuries and will face prosecution.
The Colombian Interior Minister, Armando Benedetti, reported that the Colombian survivor suffered from brain trauma and required ventilatory support. Meanwhile, the U.S. military operations have resulted in at least 32 fatalities in the region.
Reactions from Leaders
President Trump characterized the crew as “terrorists,” alleging that the semi-submersible was carrying fentanyl and other narcotics. However, experts note that fentanyl is not typically produced in the Andes region, suggesting an alternative trafficking route through Mexico.
Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa emphasized his country’s commitment to combatting drug trafficking, highlighting the need for international cooperation in addressing this crisis. Contrastingly, Colombian President Gustavo Petro criticized U.S. operations, labeling them a “failed strategy” to exert control over Latin America.
International Tensions
The recent events have escalated tensions in the region. The U.S. previously decertified Colombia as a partner in the war on drugs, prompting Colombia to halt military purchases from the United States.
As Ecuador faces increasing violence and drug trafficking challenges, it navigates complex relationships with regional neighbors and the U.S.
