Ecuador’s deepening security and political crisis escalated on Sunday, September 28, 2025, when a humanitarian convoy carrying President Daniel Noboa came under attack in Imbabura Province.
According to government officials, protesters ambushed the convoy with Molotov cocktails, fireworks and stones, leaving several soldiers injured and at least 17 service members reported missing.
The presidential convoy, which included foreign diplomats, including representatives of the Vatican, the European Union and Italy, was delivering aid when it was intercepted.
Government spokeswoman María José Alcívar said around 350 protesters took part in the attack. Soldiers guarding the convoy tried to repel the assailants, but the ambush underscored the precarious security situation facing both civilians and state officials.
The Italian Embassy later confirmed its ambassador was part of the convoy but escaped unharmed, condemning the incident as a “terrorist act.”
Ecuador’s presidency also denounced the ambush as an attack not only on the head of state but on the international community represented in the convoy.
While President Noboa was not reported injured, the government said the clashes left nine soldiers wounded and at least one person dead.
The fate of the 17 missing service members remains unclear, with negotiations or rescue operations reportedly underway. Independent confirmation of their status has not yet been provided by international agencies.
The attack comes amid mounting protests over the government’s decision to cut fuel subsidies, a policy that has ignited widespread demonstrations across Ecuador.
Noboa, who declared a state of emergency earlier this year to combat organized crime, now faces simultaneous crises of social unrest and escalating gang violence.
Sunday’s ambush highlights the dangers of navigating these overlapping challenges, with the presidency warning that Ecuador “will not be intimidated” by criminal or violent groups.
Still, the assault raises pressing questions about the government’s ability to guarantee security even at the highest levels, as ordinary Ecuadorians continue to bear the brunt of instability.