Ecuador Security Update: President Daniel Noboa declared a 60-day state of emergency in eight provinces and three municipalities, with a nightly curfew in four coastal regions, authorizing warrantless searches and raids as violence linked to cartels and gangs continues. Ecuador Arts & Culture Spotlight: The Great March for Water in Cuenca drew 55,000–60,000 people for music, dance, and speeches, demanding an end to mining in the páramos of Azuay. Ecuador Hemp Industry: Ecuador’s non-psychoactive hemp sector is projected to near or top $20M in 2026 as more than 700 companies push beyond cultivation into chocolates, cosmetics, supplements, and pet products. Sports (Ecuador on the move): Marcelo Gallardo began his Ecuador national team tenure in Quito, calling it a “new challenge” and pointing to a talented young generation. International Arts/Travel: A Galápagos snorkeling guide highlights the islands’ rare marine mix—penguins, marine iguanas, sea lions, turtles, rays, and reef sharks—thanks to the currents meeting off Ecuador.