President Donald Trump has announced that US forces executed a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel allegedly involved in drug trafficking, resulting in the deaths of three male narcoterrorists on board. The operation took place in international waters and is part of a sustained military campaign by the United States against narcotics trafficking in the Southern Command's jurisdiction.
Trump stated that he ordered the attack after intelligence agencies confirmed that the vessel was engaging in illegal drug transportation. This strike is the third of its kind within a few weeks, and Trump's statement hinted at ongoing efforts to combat the trafficking of narcotics, especially in regions connected to Venezuela.
Details from Trump's announcement on Truth Social indicated that the ship was traversing a well-known drug trafficking route intended to supply illegal drugs in the United States. He reiterated his stern message against the drug trade, urging those involved with the trafficking of substances like fentanyl to cease their activities.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has condemned these military actions, labeling them as aggressions from the US and emphasizing Venezuela's right to defend itself. Trump's announcement was accompanied by a video that illustrated the strike on the boat, showing it explode soon after the attack.
Legal experts have raised concerns regarding the legality of such strikes occurring in international waters, pointing to potential violations of international human rights and maritime law. The implications of these actions continue to unfold as the US maintains its stance against drug-related violence.
