Ecuadorian voters overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to allow U.S. military bases back into the country, directly undermining Trump’s push to expand American military presence in South America as tensions rise across the Caribbean. With more than 60% voting “No,” the referendum results halted President Daniel Noboa’s plan to host U.S. troops at strategic sites including Manta, Salinas, and parts of the Galapagos Islands. The rejection comes at a sensitive moment, as Washington launches a major regional military buildup under Operation Southern Spear, conducts multiple strikes on alleged narcotics boats, and seeks deeper alliances near Venezuela. Trump, facing growing resistance across Latin America, hinted that he may open talks with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, signaling a possible diplomatic shift.
