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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru as part of an effort to strengthen economic and security cooperation with right-wing governments in Latin America. The trip signals continued US focus on countering rival influence in the region and comes amid growing anti-drug trafficking initiatives across the continent. During the visit, the US announced $45 million in security funding and additional naval vessels for Ecuador, with Rubio praising Quito as Washington's 'most involved and aggressive partner' in the fight against drug trafficking. The pledge underscores deepening security cooperation between the two countries as part of the broader tour.