In a notable denunciation from a G7 partner, the French foreign affairs minister has criticized the United States for its recent deadly boat operations in the Caribbean, stating that they breach international laws. Jean-Noël Barrot expressed these concerns at the G7 foreign ministers summit in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont., as reported by Reuters.
The U.S. military has conducted around 19 strikes on suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean and off the Pacific coasts of Latin America, resulting in at least 76 fatalities. These actions are part of the U.S.’s efforts to combat drug trafficking, with President Donald Trump approving covert CIA operations in Venezuela, accusing President Nicolás Maduro of connections to drug cartels.
Barrot highlighted the potential risks posed by these military operations in the Caribbean region, emphasizing that France, with its overseas territories hosting over a million French citizens, could be impacted by any escalation stemming from the instability caused by such actions.
Meanwhile, a recent report from CNN alleged that Britain had suspended intelligence sharing with the U.S. from its Caribbean assets due to concerns about being associated with the deadly boat strikes. Despite these developments, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that no objections were raised by G7 members during the meetings, and the U.S. is maintaining a strong partnership with the UK.
Addressing questions about Canada’s involvement, Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand clarified that Canada is not providing intelligence for the U.S. strikes on Venezuelan vessels. The Canadian Armed Forces collaborate with the U.S. Coast Guard under Operation Caribe to intercept drugs heading towards North America, but refrain from participating in the U.S. military strikes.
The Washington Post editorial board also criticized the U.S.’s approach, noting that alienating allies through these actions may not serve American interests. The U.S. administration defends its military actions as part of a non-international armed conflict against drug trafficking, citing the significant impact of drug-related deaths in the country.
Amidst these developments, California Governor Gavin Newsom and various political figures have raised concerns about the legality and ethical implications of the U.S. strikes on suspected drug vessels. The international community continues to debate the effectiveness and consequences of these military operations in the region.