The article discusses the serious situation arising between Ecuador and Colombia, referred to as a 'tariff war,' rooted in a complex interplay of longstanding structural problems. These problems include issues like coca cultivation, cocaine trafficking, illegal mining, and the presence of irregular armed groups and other criminal organizations. These illicit activities have led to severe security, governance, and social development challenges, with no effective solutions apparent so far.

Furthermore, the piece highlights the inadequacy of multilateralism, traditional diplomacy, and regional organizations in addressing the scale and persistence of the issues at hand. The author criticizes these bodies for failing to live up to their commitments to the societies affected by the turmoil. In light of these challenges, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa's decision to adopt tariff measures as a form of political pressure is framed as a legitimate response to the crisis.

The situation ultimately underscores a broader regional concern, demanding a re-evaluation of strategies and collaborative efforts among countries to address these intertwined issues effectively. Without robust intervention and cooperation, the prospects for resolving these longstanding challenges remain bleak, potentially exacerbating tensions in the region.