The US military has conducted another deadly strike against an alleged drug-smuggling vessel in the Caribbean, killing three individuals aboard. The operation, ordered by President Trump, continues a controversial campaign targeting drug traffickers at sea—a campaign that has sparked intense debate over its legality and human cost.
US Military Executes 15th Lethal Strike Against Suspected Drug Runners in Caribbean
Summary of the Incident
On Saturday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth confirmed the latest kinetic strike, identifying the deceased as “narco-terrorists” and stating that the attack occurred in international waters. According to Hegseth, the targeted vessel was carrying narcotics along a well-known drug-trafficking corridor based on US intelligence. No American personnel were injured during this operation.
This marks the 15th confirmed military strike against suspected drug-trafficking boats since the Trump administration initiated the campaign, resulting in 64 deaths so far. The latest strike is the first in the Caribbean since October 24, following a recent shift of operations toward the eastern Pacific—where officials say there’s stronger evidence connecting cocaine shipments to the US.
Legal and Political Controversy
The strategy has drawn sharp criticism domestically and abroad. Congressional Democrats have repeatedly called for more transparency on the campaign’s motives and methods, accusing the administration of withholding information and conducting partisan briefings. Leaders on Capitol Hill have issued letters demanding details about these operations, which have reportedly gone unanswered by the Pentagon.
Internationally, concern is mounting. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has condemned the strikes, arguing that they violate international law and urging the US government to halt the campaign and prevent further extrajudicial killings.
Administration’s Defense
The Trump administration stands by its actions, citing a classified legal opinion that endorses broad lethal strikes against cartels and alleged traffickers due to their “imminent threat” to Americans. Secretary Hegseth has compared the campaign’s approach to actions taken against Al-Qaeda, signaling a hardline stance on transnational drug smuggling networks.
Congressional Response
Democratic representatives continue to press for Congressional oversight and the inclusion of Pentagon legal counsel in classified briefings. Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chair Mark Warner criticized the administration for briefing Republicans alone on the strikes, calling it a “partisan stunt”.
The Human Toll
As the campaign intensifies, critics point to its rising human cost and the risk of violating due process standards. With more than 60 fatalities now attributed to these operations, calls for accountability and legal clarity are growing.