Ecuador is grappling with escalating tensions as President Daniel Noboa’s motorcade was targeted by protesters in what his Cabinet has labeled an assassination attempt. The incident occurred amidst widespread anti-government demonstrations triggered by the removal of a fuel subsidy, which has caused diesel prices to surge from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon. The protests, led by Ecuador’s largest Indigenous group, have paralyzed parts of the country, prompting Noboa to declare a state of emergency across 10 provinces. Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo condemned the attack, describing it as an act of terrorism. However, a judge later ruled the arrest of five suspects illegal, leading to their release and complicating the investigation. The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador accused the government of provoking the incident to justify its harsh policies, while defense attorney Yaku Pérez asserted the suspects’ innocence. International figures, including U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and the U.S. State Department, have condemned the violence, urging peaceful dialogue. The unrest follows a violent clash between police and Indigenous protesters last week, resulting in casualties and arrests. Noboa, who initially enjoyed Indigenous support, now faces growing opposition as his administration struggles to address the crisis.
Noboa’s motorcade attacked with rocks in Ecuador in what government calls an assassination attempt
