QUITO, Ecuador — The streets of Ecuador’s capital, Quito, were engulfed in chaos on Sunday as demonstrators protesting soaring fuel prices clashed with riot police. Protesters burned tires, blocked roads, and faced off against law enforcement, who responded with tear gas. This marked the latest escalation in a series of nationwide protests that have tested President Daniel Noboa’s administration. The unrest was sparked 21 days ago by Ecuador’s largest Indigenous organization, which called for strikes following the government’s decision to eliminate a fuel subsidy, causing diesel prices to surge from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon. The protests have often turned violent, resulting in one civilian death, dozens injured, and over a hundred arrests. In response, Noboa declared a state of emergency in 10 provinces, restricting public gatherings in Quito and other areas. Last week, the situation intensified when protesters attacked Noboa’s motorcade with rocks. Sunday’s rally, coinciding with Ecuador’s Day of Interculturality and Plurinationality—a holiday honoring the nation’s Indigenous heritage—drew thousands of police in riot gear to the capital. Protesters, chanting “Noboa out, out!,” marched from southern Quito but were dispersed by police before reaching their destination. President Noboa has defended the subsidy cuts, arguing they are necessary to address the country’s financial crisis and curb fuel smuggling across borders. However, the policy has disproportionately impacted Indigenous communities, who rely on affordable fuel for agriculture, fishing, and transportation. Despite offering bonuses to struggling farmers and transport workers, Noboa has refused to negotiate with the Indigenous federation, further fueling tensions.
Protesters clash with police in Ecuador amid nationwide strike over fuel prices
