Ecuador has taken a significant diplomatic step by declaring Basilio Antonio Gutiérrez, the Cuban ambassador, persona non grata, and has mandated that he leave the country within 48 hours. This decision encompasses not only the ambassador himself but also the staff of the Cuban diplomatic delegation. The announcement was made through a statement by Ecuador's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility, citing the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations which allows host countries to expel diplomats without necessarily providing justification for their actions.

Although the Ecuadorian government did not specify the reasons behind this drastic diplomatic measure, the emphasis on the provisions of the Vienna Convention indicates a formal adherence to international diplomatic norms. In tandem with the expulsion of Gutiérrez, Ecuador has also terminated the assignment of its ambassador in Havana, José María Borja, who has been in position since 2021. This dual action suggests a significant shift or realignment in Ecuador's foreign relations, particularly with Cuba.

The implications of this action could be profound, impacting diplomatic relations between Ecuador and Cuba, and possibly influencing other Latin American nations' stances towards Cuba. The swift action taken by Ecuador may signal growing tensions or dissatisfaction with Cuba’s political influence or policies, marking a potential shift in Ecuador's regional foreign policy dynamics.