The Trump administration has executed its 16th lethal strike against a suspected drug vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean. This military action, carried out on November 4, 2025, resulted in the deaths of two individuals aboard the boat, raising the total death toll from the administration’s campaign in South American waters to at least 66.
Military Expansion and Operations
On the same day as the strike, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier began its transit to the Caribbean. This deployment is part of a broader increase in military presence in the region, which includes additional aircraft, ships, and thousands of troops.
Details of the Strike
- Date: November 4, 2025
- Location: Eastern Pacific Ocean
- Casualties: 2 dead, total of 66 deaths from strikes
- Aircraft Carrier: USS Gerald R. Ford
The U.S. government claims that these vessels are operated by foreign terror organizations and thus justify their lethal actions. However, little evidence or detailed information has been provided regarding these claims. Hegseth asserted, “We will find and terminate EVERY vessel with the intention of trafficking drugs to America to poison our citizens.”
Political Reactions
Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers have demanded more transparency from the Trump administration. They seek clarification on who is being targeted and the legal basis for these strikes, particularly since Congress has not authorized military action.
International Concerns
United Nations human rights chief Volker Türk has called for the U.S. to stop these attacks, emphasizing the need to prevent extrajudicial killings of those aboard such vessels.
Moving Forward
The USS Gerald R. Ford, along with other ships from its strike group, is now forging a path through the Atlantic after passing the Straits of Gibraltar. The deployment raises tensions as Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accused the U.S. of fabricating a war against his government amidst charges of narcoterrorism. In a recent interview, President Trump downplayed the likelihood of direct conflict, stating, “I doubt it. I don’t think so,” while confirming his belief that Maduro’s presidency is in jeopardy.
The ongoing military operations illustrate the Trump administration’s controversial strategy against drug trafficking and its implications for U.S.-Latin America relations.
