A Surprising Release: Ecuador Frees Submersible Survivor
In a surprising turn of events, Ecuador has released the sole survivor from a U.S. attack on a small underwater vessel suspected of carrying drugs in the Caribbean. The man, Andrés Fernando Tufiño, was found to be in good health after medical evaluations.
No Legal Basis for Detention
Ecuadorian prosecutors stated they had no evidence that Tufiño violated any laws in their country. This decision followed his return to Ecuador by the U.S. over the weekend. The attack occurred when the U.S. military struck the submersible, which they believed was transporting drugs.
Casualties and Survivors
Two individuals died in the attack, while two survived. The other survivor, a Colombian citizen, remains hospitalized. Both men were rescued by the U.S. military after the submersible was destroyed.
Controversial Claims and Expert Opinions
President Trump asserted that the vessel was carrying mostly fentanyl and other illegal drugs. However, experts argue that the majority of fentanyl entering the U.S. comes through Mexico, not the Andes.
Escalating Tensions
This attack is one of several since September, resulting in at least 32 deaths. The strikes have heightened tensions, particularly between the U.S., Venezuela, and Colombia.
- Colombia stated its survivor will be prosecuted under their laws and recalled its ambassador to the U.S. after a heated exchange between President Petro and Trump.
- Ecuador's President Noboa supported the U.S., emphasizing Ecuador's commitment to combating drug trafficking.
- Trump justified the attacks, claiming the U.S. is in an "armed conflict" with drug cartels.