Ecuador voters have decisively rejected the expansion of U.S. military presence within the country, with the constitutional referendum in Guayaquil on Sunday ending in a ‘no’ vote. The decision reflects growing national sentiment against U.S. military involvement in Latin America, where tensions have been heightened by the United States’ ongoing military campaigns in the region.
The proposed amendment, which aimed to allow greater U.S. military operations in Ecuador, faced strong opposition from both political parties and civil society groups. Supporters argued that the expansion would enhance regional security by deterring potential threats from neighboring countries, while opponents warned of the risks of foreign military dominance and the potential for increased U.S. influence over Ecuador’s domestic affairs.
The outcome of the referendum has sparked celebrations among Ecuadorians, including in the capital city of Quito, where citizens expressed their relief at the country’s decision to maintain its sovereignty. President Lenin Moreno, who has long advocated for a policy of non-alignment with major world powers, praised the decision as a reaffirmation of Ecuador’s independence and commitment to regional stability.
Analysts suggest that the referendum result may lead to a reassessment of U.S.-Ecuador relations, particularly in light of the broader regional tensions surrounding U.S. military activities. The outcome also underscores the importance of public opinion in shaping national security policies, particularly in countries with a history of asserting their sovereignty against external powers.