Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa narrowly avoided injury on Tuesday when his motorcade was struck by rocks and allegedly targeted with gunfire during escalating protests over fuel subsidy cuts. Five individuals were detained following the incident, which authorities described as a direct challenge to public order.
The attack occurred as nationwide demonstrations entered their second week after Noboa's decision to eliminate diesel subsidies, a move critics say disproportionately impacts low-income communities. Security Minister Mónica Palencia confirmed the motorcade sustained damage but emphasized the president's safety was never compromised.
This confrontation highlights growing tensions in the South American nation, where previous governments have faced similar unrest over economic reforms. Analysts suggest the subsidy removal could save $1.4 billion annually but risks deepening social divisions.
Business leaders have expressed concern about prolonged instability affecting Ecuador's $118 billion economy, while international observers monitor potential ripple effects in Latin American markets. The government maintains the reforms are necessary for long-term fiscal stability.
