WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. military has conducted a strike on a suspected drug-trafficking vessel off the coast of Venezuela, resulting in the deaths of six individuals believed to be smugglers, President Donald Trump announced Tuesday.
Trump revealed on Truth Social that the operation was authorized under his command and executed by the Secretary of War. The targeted vessel was reportedly linked to a designated terrorist organization and involved in narcotrafficking within the U.S. Southern Command’s area of responsibility.
The strike occurred in international waters, with no U.S. forces harmed, according to Trump. He further criticized Venezuela, labeling it a significant source of drug influx into the United States.
This military action follows a recent memo sent to lawmakers, declaring the U.S.’s involvement in a non-international armed conflict with drug trafficking entities. It also marks the latest in a series of strikes against drug boats in the Caribbean since September.
The Department of War recently launched a new counter-narcotics Joint Task Force in the Southern Command region. The initiative aims to dismantle drug cartels and safeguard American shores, as stated by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on social media.
Despite the administration’s actions, some members of Congress have raised legal concerns. Senators Adam Schiff and Tim Kaine introduced a war powers resolution to restrict U.S. military engagement with certain non-state actors, arguing that no congressional authorization for such force exists.
The resolution, however, failed narrowly in the Senate, with a 51-48 vote. Notably, Republicans Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski joined Democrats in supporting the measure.
Trump has signaled the continuation of these strikes, emphasizing the military’s role in combating drug-related threats. He declared that traffickers should be warned of severe consequences if they attempt to challenge U.S. defenses.
Meanwhile, Venezuela has sought an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, accusing the U.S. of pursuing regime change under the guise of anti-narcotics operations. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the strikes as attempts to intimidate his government.
The Trump administration maintains its stance against Maduro, whom it considers a cartel leader rather than a legitimate head of state. Both the White House and the Pentagon have yet to comment on the situation.