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Ecuador's president declared a state of emergency in seven provinces on Tuesday in response to the growing number of truck strikes that have blocked roads and affected mobility in various regions.
The measure, which includes the mobilization of police and military forces, seeks to guarantee public order and prevent further disruptions to the supply of essential goods and services. According to the presidential decree, the state of emergency will initially be in effect for 60 days and includes restrictions on the right of free movement in strategic areas.
Transport workers began protesting against rising operating costs, rising fuel prices, and what they consider a lack of government response to their long-standing demands. In several cities, roadblocks have caused complications in the supply of food and fuel, as well as delays in public and private transportation.
"Ecuador cannot stand still. This decision is being made to protect citizens and ensure that essential services continue to operate," the president said in a message to the nation.
Social and union organizations have expressed concern about the decision, warning that it could escalate the conflict. However, the government maintains that it is maintaining open channels of dialogue with the transporters to reach a negotiated solution.
The state of emergency covers key provinces in the Andean and coastal corridors, where the main protests are concentrated, and is added to a series of measures adopted by the administration in a context of economic and social tensions.
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