The Trump administration has carried out another lethal air strike off the coast of Venezuela, killing six individuals aboard a vessel allegedly involved in drug trafficking. This marks the fifth known US strike in the Caribbean targeting suspected narcotics operations, bringing the total death toll to 27 in less than two months.
Details of the Latest Strike
President Donald Trump announced the strike on social media, claiming that the vessel was affiliated with a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) and that the attack was authorized under his standing powers as Commander-in-Chief.
Trump stated:
“The strike was conducted in International Waters, and six male narcoterrorists aboard the vessel were killed. No U.S. Forces were harmed.”
Despite these claims, no evidence has been provided to confirm the boat was actively engaged in drug trafficking. An unclassified video released by the US government shows a small vessel drifting at sea before being struck by a missile.
Pattern of Lethal US Strikes
This recent action is part of a series of US operations in the Caribbean aimed at stopping suspected drug-trafficking vessels.
- September 2, 2025: First strike, 11 fatalities.
- September 15 & 19, 2025: Two strikes, three fatalities each.
- October 3, 2025: Fourth strike, four fatalities.
- October 14, 2025: Fifth strike, six fatalities.
Experts and international rights groups have criticized these strikes as potentially illegal under international law, arguing that drug traffickers do not qualify as armed combatants, making these lethal attacks highly controversial.
Trump’s Justification and Executive Power
The Trump administration has repeatedly claimed that lethal strikes against narcotics operations are necessary to prevent drugs from reaching the US. However, critics contend that these attacks are part of a broader executive overreach, granting the president extraordinary power without congressional oversight.
In early October, the administration submitted a memo to Congress asserting that the US is engaged in a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels, labeling cartel members as “unlawful combatants.”
Additionally, Trump had previously signed an executive order in August authorizing military action against drug-trafficking networks, framing narcotics operations as acts of foreign hostility.
Despite these measures, the US Senate recently rejected a bill that would have required legislative approval for future strikes on suspected drug vessels.
Military Build-Up in the Caribbean
The strikes coincide with a notable US military presence increase in the Caribbean, including additional forces stationed in Puerto Rico. The deployment of fighter jets, naval assets, and logistical support raises concerns about potential escalation with Venezuela.
Trump has frequently accused Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of facilitating foreign gangs entering the US, citing the Tren de Aragua criminal network, although US intelligence reports have found no evidence linking Maduro to the gang’s operations.
Controversy and Legal Implications
Human rights organizations argue that the US may be violating international law with these extraterritorial strikes. Since drug traffickers are not considered legitimate military targets, the attacks could constitute unlawful use of force under the UN Charter.
Critics also warn that the pattern of unilateral military strikes sets a dangerous precedent, potentially destabilizing the Caribbean region and fueling diplomatic tensions with Venezuela.
Key Takeaways
- The US conducted a lethal air strike off Venezuela, killing six individuals.
- This is the fifth such strike, with a total of 27 fatalities.
- The Trump administration labels the targets as “narcoterrorists” or DTO members.
- Critics argue the strikes violate international law and represent executive overreach.
- US military presence in the Caribbean has increased amid these operations.
- Allegations against Venezuela’s government remain unsubstantiated by intelligence.
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