The United States has carried out another strike on a suspected drug trafficking vessel in the eastern Pacific, killing three people aboard, according to the Pentagon. This marks the 21st reported U.S. military strike on narcotics boats since early September, part of a wider effort to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the country.
Details of the Strike
The Pentagon’s U.S. Southern Command confirmed that intelligence indicated the vessel was transporting illegal narcotics along a well-known smuggling route. The boat was in international waters when it was struck by Joint Task Force Southern Spear.
According to Pentagon figures, over 80 people have died in similar operations since the campaign began. U.S. officials describe the strikes as a justified effort to combat drug trafficking into the United States.
Legal and Political Controversy
The strikes have sparked debate among U.S. lawmakers, human rights groups, and international allies over their legality. The Trump administration maintains that it has full legal authority to carry out the operations. A Justice Department opinion supports the strikes and states that U.S. military personnel involved are immune from prosecution.
Cartel de los Soles Declared a Terrorist Organization
On the same day, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the U.S. would classify Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organization. This designation makes it a crime in the U.S. to provide material support to the cartel.
U.S. officials allege the cartel has partnered with Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan criminal group, to traffic narcotics into the United States. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has been accused of leading the cartel, which he denies.
Increased Military Presence in the Caribbean
To support these operations and prepare for possible further action, the Pentagon has deployed warships, fighter jets, and a nuclear submarine to the Caribbean. Officials say these measures are part of a broader strategy to combat drug trafficking and maintain regional security
About The Author
