US forces have conducted a strike against a vessel suspected of transporting drugs in the Pacific Ocean, as confirmed by the Pentagon. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reported that two individuals aboard the vessel were killed; there were no reported injuries to US personnel.
The vessel, which was known to US intelligence, was operating along a recognized drug trafficking route in international waters. This incident marks the eighth US strike on suspected drug trafficking vessels since September 2, with this being the first occurrence in the Pacific region.
Footage from the strike shows a blue speedboat before it was targeted by US ordinance. Hegseth stated that “narco-terrorists intending to bring drugs to our shores will find no safe haven in our hemisphere.” He emphasized a stance of zero tolerance towards drug trafficking, linking the issue to broader security concerns.
A recent memo leaked to US lawmakers indicated that the Trump administration views its actions as part of a “non-international armed conflict” against drug trafficking organizations, some of which have been designated as terrorist groups by US authorities. Reports indicate that at least 36 people have died in these strikes, including one on a semi-submersible vessel in the Caribbean.
Two individuals survived a previous strike and were subsequently returned to Colombia and Ecuador. Ecuador’s government identified one survivor, Andrés Fernando Tufiño, but released him due to a lack of evidence against him. The other survivor from Colombia is currently hospitalized.
Tensions have escalated between the Trump administration and Colombian President Gustavo Petro, with Trump accusing Petro of promoting drug production. The US plans to alter its financial support to Colombia, historically a close ally in Latin America, amidst ongoing drug trafficking issues along the Pacific coast of both Colombia and Ecuador. The majority of cocaine destined for US cities is estimated to pass through the Pacific.
Despite significant US military involvement in the region, details regarding the identities of those killed in strikes or the specific drug trafficking organizations involved have not been extensively disclosed. Approximately 10,000 US troops, along with military aircraft and ships, are currently engaged in counter-drug operations in the Caribbean.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd9k2w8ell0o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss