The United States conducted another operation targeting a small boat accused of transporting drugs near Venezuela, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, according to President Donald Trump. The fatal strike took place in the Caribbean, marking the fifth such incident under the Trump administration’s approach of considering alleged drug traffickers as unlawful combatants subject to military action.
President Trump revealed that the individuals killed were on the boat, emphasizing that there were no casualties among U.S. forces. The operation was authorized by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who Trump mentioned had ordered the strike earlier that day. A video of the strike was shared by both Trump and Hegseth on social media platforms.
The footage depicted a small boat stationary on the water before being hit by a projectile from above, leading to an explosion and subsequent flames engulfing the vessel. Trump stated that the strike occurred in international waters after intelligence confirmed the boat’s involvement in narcotics trafficking and association with “narcoterrorist networks” on a known drug-trafficking route.
Lawmakers have expressed concerns that such military actions could impede anti-narcotics efforts by straining relationships with key allies like Colombia and hindering intelligence gathering essential for combating drug trafficking organizations. This sentiment was echoed by former U.S. Ambassador for the Venezuela Affairs Unit, James Story, who highlighted the potential legal and operational complications arising from the strikes.
There is mounting frustration among members of Congress from both political parties regarding the administration’s handling of these operations. While some Republicans are seeking clarity on the legal justifications and operational details, Democrats argue that the strikes violate domestic and international laws. A recent Senate war powers resolution aimed at restricting these actions failed to pass, indicating ongoing debates over the administration’s authority in conducting such strikes.
The Trump administration’s assertion of engaging in a non-international armed conflict with designated terrorist groups involved in drug trafficking has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers demanding evidence to support these claims. Despite the increased presence of U.S. maritime forces in the region, Venezuelan officials have denounced the operations as a pretext for destabilizing the government and have warned of potential escalation in tensions.
In response to accusations of ulterior motives behind the military buildup, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino characterized the U.S. actions as aggressive and aimed at provoking regime change in the country. He cautioned the population to brace for potential escalations, criticizing the perceived aggression and warmongering behavior of the U.S. government.