US Military Strikes Kill Over 100 in Caribbean and Pacific Drug Interdiction Campaign

American forces have conducted a new lethal strike in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The action targeted a vessel suspected of smuggling drugs. This brings the total number of confirmed strikes to at least 29 since early September.

The campaign, authorized by the Trump administration, has resulted in at least 105 fatalities. The operation represents a significant escalation in using military force against alleged narcotics traffickers. According to official U.S. figures, the strikes have occurred in international waters near Venezuela and along Pacific routes.

Campaign Scale and Mounting Scrutiny

The latest strike on December 22 killed one person. U.S. Southern Command stated the vessel was on a known trafficking route. No public evidence was provided to substantiate the claim of drug smuggling.

Earlier operations have been far deadlier. The very first strike in September killed 11 people. Video footage released by the military has shown boats exploding and sinking after being hit.

Lawmakers and human rights groups are raising serious concerns. They question the legal basis for the attacks and the lack of transparency. Classified footage reviewed by Congress allegedly shows survivors being targeted in a follow-up strike.

Legal Justification and Regional Buildup

The administration says it is now in an “armed conflict” with drug cartels. Officials argue this classification permits the use of military force. The goal is to halt narcotics flow and pressure Venezuela’s government.

This campaign is supported by a major naval deployment. The U.S. has sent guided-missile destroyers, an aircraft carrier, and advanced fighter jets to the region. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has named the overall effort “Operation Southern Spear.”

Venezuela has accused the U.S. of aggression and piracy. The country launched a large military mobilization in response. Tensions spiked further after the U.S. seized a Venezuelan oil tanker earlier this month.

The ongoing U.S. military strikes represent a hardline shift in drug interdiction policy. With over 100 lives lost and no end in sight, the campaign continues to draw intense legal and ethical scrutiny both domestically and internationally.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the legal basis for these U.S. strikes?

The Trump administration declares it is in an “armed conflict” with cartels. This classification is used to justify military force under presidential war powers. Legal experts and some lawmakers strongly dispute this rationale.

How has Venezuela responded to the operations?

Venezuela condemns the strikes as acts of aggression. It has mobilized its military in a show of force. The government also accused the U.S. of “international piracy” after the seizure of an oil tanker.

What are the main concerns of human rights groups?

Groups like the UN Human Rights Office warn of extrajudicial killings. They cite the lack of public evidence and due process. The high casualty count among unidentified individuals is a primary concern.

What is Operation Southern Spear?

It is the name for the large U.S. military buildup supporting the strike campaign. It involves nearly a dozen Navy ships and approximately 12,000 personnel. The force includes an aircraft carrier and advanced fighter jets deployed to the region.