Ecuador has officially cut diplomatic relations with Cuba by declaring its ambassador, Basilio Antonio Gutiérrez, a 'persona non grata.' The Ecuadorian government has given the Cuban diplomatic staff 48 hours to leave the country. This action reflects a significant shift in Ecuador's foreign policy, which has not been detailed in the government's communication, leaving many questions about the underlying motivations.

In a video shared on social media by Ecuador's president, Daniel Noboa, embassy staff were seen burning documents on a grill, symbolizing the severance of ties. This act of public display highlights the escalating tensions between the two nations and marks a notable moment in Ecuador's broader diplomatic strategy. The absence of context in the government's announcement has raised eyebrows and speculation regarding possible political pressures or incidents that may have triggered this drastic measure.

In response, the Cuban government has condemned Ecuador's decision as "arbitrary and unjustified," emphasizing that the reasons for such a decision were not sufficiently outlined. This diplomatic fallout may have implications for bilateral relations in the region, affecting trade, cooperation, and the dynamics of international alliances, considering the historical context of Cuba's relationships in Latin America.