In recent days, Americans with Ecuadorian heritage have been closely following the escalating drug trafficking-related violence in Ecuador, expressing horror, fear, and sadness for their fellow countrymen. The country has found itself in a state of war with violent gangs, prompting concerns of a potential internal civil conflict.

Former Florida Democrat congresswoman, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, who was born in Ecuador, shared her distress upon learning about the outbreak of violence through a group chat among her family and friends. Mucarsel-Powell, now running for the U.S. Senate in Florida, expressed her extreme concern for the safety of her loved ones as kidnappings and cartel-driven violence continue to plague the nation.

Having personally experienced the political corruption and violence prevalent in Ecuador during her childhood, Mucarsel-Powell emphasized that the current infiltration of cartels using violent means to target police officers and take them hostage is unprecedented. She warned that Ecuador is on the verge of an internal civil war if immediate action is not taken to address the escalating violence.

President Daniel Noboa of Ecuador has recently announced plans for two high-security prisons, highlighting the country's determination to combat the terrorist groups responsible for the ongoing violence. Noboa, declaring that Ecuador is at war, has garnered international attention after masked gunmen seized a public television station in Guayaquil, holding the staff hostage. The nation has also experienced several explosions, abductions of police officers, prison guards, and staff, as well as numerous killings, including those of policemen.

The rise in violence is primarily attributed to drug traffickers vying for control over ports and transportation routes, particularly for cocaine smuggling. In response to the growing security concerns, police in Ecuador recently evacuated a terminal near the public transport station in the capital city, Quito, following a fake bomb threat.

The Ecuadorian community in the United States, particularly those in Orlando, Florida, express deep worry for their family members who still reside in Ecuador. Many have reported adhering to curfews and minimizing their movement outside of their homes due to heightened anxiety and fear. Economist Augusto de la Torre, who has family in Ecuador, emphasizes the shocking situation and the urgent need for authorities to regain control over the armed forces and combat the strong influence of criminal gangs operating even from within jails.

President Noboa's government has classified 22 gangs as terrorist organizations, with Rear Adm. Jaime Vela announcing the detention of 329 gang members. To tackle the crisis, the government plans to deport over 1,500 foreign prisoners from jails this week. The United States has pledged to provide aid to support Ecuador's efforts in combating the violence.

The unrest in Ecuador is exacerbated by an ongoing corruption scandal, which has revealed deep connections between drug traffickers and political officials. Attorney General Diana Salazar has exposed these connections and released incriminating chats online, further complicating the situation.

Though Ecuador has not historically been a producer of cocaine, its strategic port location has made it a target for drug traffickers over the years. Economist Augusto de la Torre notes that the current violence is bringing to the surface the underlying issues that have plagued the country.

As the situation in Ecuador continues to unfold, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell pledges to advocate for clear U.S. support for President Noboa's efforts in curbing the violence. In the meantime, families like Katy Carrillo's remain hopeful that the government's actions will eventually restore security and stability to their home country, as the current level of insecurity is too overwhelming.