Trump Administration Seizes Alleged Pacific Drug Boat, 4 Killed
The U.S. military recently escalated its operations against alleged drug trafficking in the Pacific. On Wednesday, a strike targeted a “narco-trafficking vessel,” resulting in the deaths of four individuals. This incident marks the 15th naval action in a two-month campaign initiated by the Trump administration. So far, over 60 people have been killed during these operations.
Details of the Operation
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike occurred in international waters. He stated the vessel was linked to a terrorist organization, although he did not provide its name. Importantly, no U.S. forces were harmed during the operation.
Expansion of Operations
The military’s campaign began targeting drug-laden boats in the Caribbean Sea last month. Recently, the scope of these strikes has expanded to the Eastern Pacific. The Trump administration has suggested that some of these vessels are associated with the Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua.
Goals and Statements
The administration aims to counteract drug trafficking operations, asserting an “armed conflict” exists with these organizations, many of which are designated as foreign terrorist entities. Hegseth emphasized this on X, stating:
- “The Western Hemisphere is no longer a safe haven for narco-terrorists.”
- “The Department of War will continue to hunt them down and eliminate them.”
Former President Trump has hinted at the potential targeting of land-based criminal operations, discussing “the land is going to be next.”
Political Repercussions
This military campaign has faced criticism from some lawmakers. They demand evidence that the boats engaged in drug trafficking before strikes are authorized. Currently, Congress has not approved these military actions; however, the Trump administration maintains they do not require congressional permission.
International Response
Both Venezuela and Colombia have condemned these strikes, perceiving them as a military escalation in the Caribbean. Tensions rose further when a U.S. warship docked in Trinidad and Tobago, an action described by the Venezuelan government as a “hostile provocation.”
The U.S. administration continues to exert pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, accusing him of complicity with drug traffickers, a claim Maduro publicly denies.
