New Military Action Ordered by Defense Secretary
U.S. Southern Command said a U.S. strike in the Eastern Pacific killed one man aboard a vessel it alleges was involved in drug trafficking. The operation was carried out Monday at the direction of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to a SOUTHCOM statement.
Targeted Vessel on Narco-Trafficking Routes
The military said Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a “lethal kinetic strike” on a low-profile vessel in international waters. Intelligence assessments indicated the boat was traveling along known narco-trafficking routes and was actively engaged in drug-smuggling operations.
SOUTHCOM described the deceased individual as a “narco-terrorist” connected to designated terrorist organizations.
Growing Death Toll From Maritime Strikes
Monday’s strike adds to a rising death toll from U.S. military actions targeting suspected drug-smuggling boats. Since early September, at least 105 people have been killed in U.S. strikes across the Eastern Pacific and Caribbean, according to official figures.
Pressure Campaign in the Region
The latest operation comes as the Trump administration escalates military pressure in the region, particularly around Venezuela, with U.S. forces increasing patrols and interdictions aimed at disrupting narcotics trafficking networks.
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