Ecuador's former vice president, Jorge Glas, has been hospitalized in Guayaquil after falling ill following his arrest during a high-profile raid at the Mexican embassy in Quito. The country's national prison agency, SNAI, reported that Glas was taken to a hospital after refusing to eat food provided to him while in detention.
Paramedics from the Ministry of Public Health transferred Glas to the Naval Hospital of Guayaquil, where he is currently under observation. SNAI stated that Glas is in stable condition and will be returned to prison after further evaluation.
Glas, who has been accused of embezzling government funds, was seeking asylum at the Mexican embassy when the raid occurred. He has denied the allegations, claiming political persecution. President Daniel Noboa defended the police raid, emphasizing the need to prevent Glas from escaping justice.
Mexico has condemned the raid as a violation of international law and sovereignty, leading to a diplomatic rift between the two countries. President Noboa expressed willingness to address differences with Mexico but reiterated the importance of upholding justice.
Regional countries, including Brazil and Argentina, have criticized Ecuador's actions, citing potential violations of diplomatic conventions and Glas's right to asylum. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has also expressed concern over the situation.
The developments surrounding Glas's arrest and hospitalization continue to draw international attention, highlighting the complex legal and diplomatic challenges at play.