U.S. Military Strikes Caribbean Boat; Survivors Confirmed
The U.S. military has conducted another strike against a boat in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in confirmed survivors, according to a U.S. official. This incident occurred on Thursday and marks the sixth attack on a vessel in the region since last month. Importantly, this is the first confirmed strike with survivors aboard.
Details of the Strike
Although the Trump administration has not officially announced this latest strike, prior attacks targeted vessels suspected of transporting drugs. The specifics regarding the number of passengers and survivors from Thursday’s incident remain unclear.
Historical Context of Boat Strikes
- Prior strikes: At least 27 individuals have lost their lives in the five previous boat attacks in the Caribbean off Venezuela.
- President Trump has shared videos of these strikes on social media, labeling the deceased as “narcotraffickers.”
The administration argues that these strikes are justified under the premise of being in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels. Trump stated, “When they’re loaded up with drugs, they’re fair game,” emphasizing that all attacked vessels fit this description.
Political Reactions and Military Buildup
Some lawmakers have expressed concerns about the legality of these strikes, asserting that the administration should obtain Congressional approval for actions against drug cartels. They also demand more evidence that the struck vessels were indeed transporting narcotics.
These military actions coincide with an increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, aimed at pressuring Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the administration accuses of collaborating with drug traffickers. Notably, the U.S. has dispatched eight warships, fighter jets, and 10,000 troops to the area.
- B-52 bombers flew approximately 150 miles north of Venezuela’s coast.
Trump has also authorized covert CIA operations within Venezuela, targeting drug trafficking and migration issues. He noted, “I think Venezuela is feeling heat” regarding U.S. actions.
Maduro’s Response
In response to these developments, President Maduro has denied any involvement in drug trafficking and accused the Trump administration of seeking regime change. He recently indicated readiness to declare a state of emergency due to American “aggression” and has taken steps to enhance his powers in anticipation of potential U.S. attacks.
