US Military Strikes Sink Three Boats in Pacific, Eight Killed

The United States military has conducted a significant operation in the eastern Pacific Ocean, targeting three boats suspected of drug trafficking. This action, executed on December 15, resulted in the deaths of eight individuals.

Details of the Strikes

According to the US Southern Command, the operation was carried out at the direction of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth as part of a broader initiative known as Operation Southern Spear. This campaign aims to disrupt narcotics trafficking, primarily linked to designated terrorist organizations.

Context of Operation Southern Spear

Since the commencement of this operation, which began on September 2, at least 95 people have died in strikes against suspected drug boats. The military used intelligence to confirm that the targeted vessels were navigating known narco-trafficking routes in international waters.

Recent Activity

• December 4: A prior strike killed four individuals on a suspected drug boat in the same region.
• Strike Campaign: Ongoing since September 2, with a focus on the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

Government Oversight and Reactions

The recent strikes have led to significant scrutiny, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling for an all-senators briefing. This session, set for Tuesday, will include key figures such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Schumer emphasized the need for oversight on the military actions. He stated, “The American people deserve oversight. We intend to deliver it.” A classified briefing is also expected for House lawmakers on the same day.

Legal and Political Implications

The Trump administration has characterized those killed in the strikes as “unlawful combatants.” This position allows them to conduct lethal operations without judicial review, based on a classified finding from the Justice Department.

Impact on Venezuela

This military effort is part of a larger pressure campaign against Venezuela. It includes deploying thousands of troops and an aircraft carrier strike group to the Caribbean region, alongside new sanctions targeting shipping companies believed to facilitate the movement of Venezuelan oil.

In recent weeks, the U.S. seized a sanctioned tanker off the coast of Venezuela, intensifying its efforts to stifle the Maduro regime’s oil trade.