Two suspected narcotics smuggling vessels were struck by U.S. military forces in international waters of the Eastern Pacific, resulting in six fatalities, according to a statement from the Department of Defense. Officials stated the action was taken against what they described as vessels operated by designated terrorist organizations.
The Pentagon reported that intelligence indicated the boats were actively transporting illicit narcotics along a known trafficking corridor. The strikes, which officials say left no U.S. personnel harmed, are part of a broader maritime security initiative that began earlier this year. To date, this campaign has reportedly resulted in over 70 casualties.
The policy has drawn significant international criticism. United Nations human rights officials have previously labeled such actions unacceptable and a potential violation of international law, arguing they bypass judicial processes. The government of Venezuela has condemned the strikes as illegal acts of aggression, accusing the U.S. of violating national sovereignty.
Tensions in the region have been heightened in recent months by an increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean, which has included advanced naval assets. This deployment prompted a corresponding security mobilization by Venezuelan authorities.