Trump Shifts Focus to Ground Operations Against Drug Traffickers in Latin America
President Donald Trump is now looking to target “land” operations in Latin America, following the U.S. military’s series of attacks on suspected drug smuggling boats in the Caribbean since September.
“The oceans are well managed, so we certainly are looking to land now,” Trump mentioned to reporters recently. He added a bit of humor, saying, “There were a few days when we couldn’t find the boat, but we consider that a good thing, not a bad thing.”
Trump expressed dissatisfaction with solely relying on the Coast Guard to intercept drug-smuggling ships, pointing out that “we’ve been doing that for 30 years and it’s just not been effective.”
Response to Military Efforts
After the U.S. military reportedly killed six suspected drug traffickers on a boat in international waters near Venezuela, Trump noted the sophistication of drug smugglers’ boats. “Some of these boats are, I mean, world-class speedboats,” he said, although he quickly reassured that they aren’t quicker than missiles.
The White House did not provide immediate insights into any planned ground operations mentioned by Trump.
Additionally, he acknowledged that he authorized the CIA to conduct covert actions in Venezuela. This follows reports that the country has been releasing prisoners to the U.S. while facilitating drug shipments to American shores.
However, when pressed on whether the CIA had the authorization to “remove” Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Trump deflected, saying, “I don’t want to answer questions like that. It’s a stupid question to me.” While he felt it wasn’t a stupid question per se, he seemed hesitant to elaborate, simply stating, “But I think Venezuela is feeling the heat.”
The Trump administration has adopted a tough stance against drug trafficking, labeling groups like the Torren de Aragua and Sinaloa as foreign terrorist organizations earlier this year.
Legal Concerns from Congress
In late September, a memo was sent to Congress outlining that the U.S. is engaged in a “non-international armed conflict” against drug traffickers. Lawmakers from both parties have raised legal concerns regarding these military actions. Senators Adam Schiff and Tim Kaine introduced the War Powers Resolution, aiming to prevent the military from engaging in hostilities against particular non-state entities. Although the resolution was voted down in the Senate on October 8, it did garner some bipartisan support.
Amid inquiries regarding the legality of airstrikes, Trump was dismissive, asserting, “We have been given information that they were loaded with drugs. And that’s the important thing.” He further remarked that when a vessel is carrying drugs, “it’s fair game.”
This ongoing situation continues to develop, and updates are expected.
