The U.S. military executed a strike against an alleged drug boat on Friday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. This incident marks the seventh attack on such vessels since the previous month. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the details on Sunday.
Details of the Strike
The targeted vessel is reportedly linked to the Ejército de Liberación Nacional, a Colombian guerrilla group recognized as a terrorist organization by the U.S. since the 1990s. Hegseth claimed that the boat was traversing a known narco-trafficking route and transporting significant quantities of narcotics.
This strike occurred in international waters, specifically within the area of responsibility of U.S. Southern Command, which encompasses the Caribbean Sea.
Statement from U.S. Officials
- Secretary Hegseth emphasized that the U.S. military will pursue these organizations as terrorists.
- He stated that the operations aim to “hunt and kill” those involved in such activities, similar to efforts against Al Qaeda.
- Since the inception of these serious military actions, at least 32 individuals have lost their lives in similar strikes, showcasing the escalated conflict against drug cartels.
Legal and Political Reactions
The Trump administration has framed this campaign as a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels. Officials argue that the narcotics transported by these groups claim tens of thousands of American lives annually, warranting military intervention.
President Trump remarked that vessels loaded with drugs are considered “fair game” during this military campaign.
Concerns Raised by Lawmakers
- Some lawmakers have expressed concerns, demanding more evidence of drug transport on these vessels.
- Democratic Senator Mark Kelly criticized the administration’s legal justification, describing it as “very convoluted.”
- Kelly highlighted that explanations regarding the legality and constitutionality of these strikes were inadequate.
International Criticism
The strikes have prompted backlash from both Venezuelan and Colombian governments. Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused the U.S. of mistakenly targeting a fishing vessel during its military actions.
In response, President Trump referred to Petro as an “illegal drug leader” and hinted at the possibility of cutting U.S. aid to Colombia.
