In a significant operation on Tuesday, the U.S. military conducted a drone strike against a vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the death of two suspected narcoterrorists. This strike, classified as a “lethal kinetic strike” by War Secretary Pete Hegseth, was ordered by President Donald Trump.
Details of the Strike
This operation marks the 16th military strike initiated by the Trump administration against drug smuggling vessels. The targeted ship was reportedly associated with a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) and was confirmed to be involved in narcotics smuggling along a known trafficking route. Intelligence indicated that the boat was carrying illegal drugs.
Impact on NarcoTerrorism
- At least 66 suspected narcoterrorists have been eliminated in similar operations.
- Three individuals survived these strikes, but details on their current status remain scarce.
In Hegseth’s statement on social media platform X, he emphasized that no U.S. forces were harmed during the strike. He reaffirmed the military’s commitment, stating, “We will find and terminate EVERY vessel with the intention of trafficking drugs to America.” Protecting U.S. citizens from the dangers of narcotics remains a top priority for military operations.
Expanding Military Presence
The U.S. military has ramped up its operations across the Caribbean and surrounding regions. Enhanced resources include bombers, warships, and Marines, reflecting a broader campaign against drugtrafficking and narcoterrorist organizations, particularly those linked to Venezuela.
New CounterNarcotics Task Force
In a proactive approach, the Trump administration established a counternarcotics Joint Task Force operating in coordination with the U.S. Southern Command. This task force is designed to consolidate air, maritime, and special operations across the region, marking a historic U.S. military mobilization against drug trafficking in decades.
As the situation evolves, the ongoing commitment to dismantling drug cartels and protecting the homeland through military action remains a focal point for U.S. leadership and security efforts.