President Donald Trump indicated that the US military has destroyed an alleged Venezuelan drug vessel traveling in international waters en route to America.
According to Trump, the military action resulted in the deaths of three men associated with 'violent drug trafficking cartels,' although he did not provide any evidence to support claims that the boat was indeed carrying drugs.
Not long before the attack, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro claimed that Caracas would defend itself against US 'aggression,' labeling the US diplomat Marco Rubio as the 'lord of death and war.'
The situation between the two countries has grown tenser following the US deployment of warships in the southern Caribbean, purportedly to carry out counter-narcotics operations. This prior strike reportedly resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals.
On Monday, Trump stated, 'This morning, on my orders, US military forces conducted a second kinetic strike against positively identified, extraordinarily violent drug trafficking cartels and narcoterrorists.' He emphasized the threat these groups pose to US national security.
A video shared by Trump appeared to show a vessel exploding and burning in the water. Rubio, defending the earlier strike, remarked that actions against such boats should continue.
During an interview, the US Secretary of State described Maduro as a 'direct threat to national security,' citing drug trafficking as a primary concern.
In response, Maduro expressed that US relations had 'been destroyed' by its military threats and reaffirmed Venezuela's right to defend its sovereignty.
Legal experts have indicated that the US's attack on the first vessel could potentially violate international law and human rights standards.
In light of this incident, experts warn of escalating military violence in the region. Following claims of a Venezuelan vessel being boarded by US forces, Maduro accused the US of illegal actions aimed at instigating further conflict.
The US does not recognize Maduro's administration, which it accuses of orchestrating drug trafficking and corruption, offering a substantial bounty for his capture.
Despite the rising military tension, internal pressure within Venezuela is mounting, as public sector employees have reportedly faced coercion to join the militia. Maduro has called upon Venezuelans to enlist in defense efforts against perceived threats from the US.
