Colombia’s Surge in Drug Seizures at Ecuador Border Masks Deeper Challenges

Colombia has reported a "historic increase" in drug confiscations along its 586-kilometer border with Ecuador since President Gustavo Petro assumed office in August 2022. Official figures boast a staggering 321% rise in cocaine seizures and an astonishing 1,216% increase in heroin intercepted, according to the Ministry of Defense. At first glance, these numbers suggest robust cooperation between Colombia and Ecuador’s security forces—a critical front line in the battle against transnational narcotics trafficking that directly impacts U.S. national security. After all, every kilo intercepted here is potentially one less gram flowing into American communities where addiction and crime flourish. Are These...