Summary
A convoy led by Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa, delivering aid during a national strike, was attacked by 350 people, resulting in 17 soldiers being taken hostage. The attack is part of a broader protest by Indigenous groups against cuts to fuel subsidies, during which one protester was killed. The Ecuadorian government and the UN have both called for a dialogue to address the violence and investigate the incidents.
Key Facts
- President Daniel Noboa's convoy was attacked while delivering aid in Ecuador.
- 17 soldiers were taken hostage during the attack.
- The convoy included diplomats from the UN and EU, along with the Italian ambassador and a Vatican diplomat.
- The attack happened during a national strike led by Indigenous rights groups against fuel subsidy cuts.
- One Indigenous protester was shot and killed during related protests.
- A state of emergency has been declared in eight of Ecuador's provinces.
- Ecuadorian government accused the Venezuelan cartel Tren de Aragua of being behind demonstrations.
- President Noboa warned protesters could face terrorism charges and long prison sentences.
