Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa Survives Rock-Throwing Attack in Apparent Assassination Attempt

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa escaped unharmed on Tuesday after his motorcade was targeted by a crowd of approximately 500 protesters throwing rocks, an incident described by top officials as an assassination attempt. Environment and Energy Minister Ines Manzano reported signs of bullet damage on the president’s car and confirmed that five individuals were detained in connection with the attack, which followed protests against Noboa’s recent removal of fuel subsidies. The arrested are reportedly facing charges of terrorism and attempted assassination.

The incident occurred near Cuenca, about 77 km south of the city, where Noboa later addressed students, condemning the attack and warning that such actions would not be tolerated in Ecuador. Meanwhile, the Indigenous federation CONAIE accused authorities of excessive force against protesters, including the detention of elderly women, and called the response “brutal.” The protests are part of a broader strike movement launched 16 days ago against the elimination of diesel subsidies, a measure intended to save $1.1 billion annually, some of which is being redirected to small-scale farmers and transport workers.

Images and videos released by the presidency showed rocks hitting the vehicle, cracked windows, and a heavily damaged windscreen. Noboa’s strong response drew support from Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo, who said the attack would not stop the president or the country. The incident was also condemned by foreign governments, including Costa Rica, Honduras, and Panama. Later on Tuesday, around 200 people protested in Quito against the government, though the demonstration ended peacefully after being blocked by police.

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