Ecuadorean officials have expressed interest in hosting a U.S. military base in their country and pursuing a free trade agreement with the United States. This information comes from sources with direct knowledge of the matter, who wish to remain anonymous. The officials delivered these intentions to Republican lobbyists in Washington close to the Trump administration. It remains unclear if the administration is aware of or receptive to these proposals. The White House National Security Council has not commented on the matter.
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa's administration is exploring unconventional measures to tackle crime and enhance relations with Trump supporters as the country heads into a competitive election in April. This includes a recent partnership announcement with Erik Prince, noted for founding Blackwater, with a focus on addressing crime and narcoterrorism.
Noboa has advocated for allowing foreign military bases in Ecuador, and the Ecuadorean legislature is considering lifting the ban on such facilities imposed in 2008. This follows previous instances of U.S. military presence in the country, including bases on the Galapagos Islands during World War II and on the mainland until 2009.
Several nations, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and El Salvador, have pursued unique strategies to engage with the U.S., leveraging President Trump's transactional approach to foreign policy. For instance, officials from these countries have discussed mineral deals and deportation agreements.
Mercury Public Affairs, a Washington-based firm, has been retained by Ecuador to represent its interests with the Trump administration. The lobbying contract aims to address various issues such as migration, trade, security, and anti-terrorism efforts. The Ecuadorean foreign ministry and Mercury Public Affairs have not responded to requests for comments.
Ecuador faces a competitive election between Noboa and leftist Luisa Gonzalez, a protege of former President Rafael Correa. Noboa has campaigned on reducing violence, capturing gang leaders, and deploying military forces to combat insecurity. Meanwhile, Gonzalez opposes foreign troop presence but advocates for anti-drug crime initiatives and increased social spending in volatile areas.
While the Ecuadorean officials are ambitious in their requests to U.S. lobbyists, there are considerations regarding timing and the State Department's protocol to avoid favoritism before elections. Trump's administration has shown varied approaches to Latin America, with emphasis on combating narcotics trafficking and implementing tariffs, while also engaging in unexpected decisions like issuing licenses in Venezuela.