Late on Wednesday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that the U.S. military had struck a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of three individuals labeled as “narco-terrorists.”
Hegseth indicated that the vessel was linked to a designated terrorist organization, although he didn’t specify which one. He noted that those aboard were actively involved in drug trafficking.
The strike occurred in international waters, and, fortunately, there were no injuries reported among U.S. service members during the operation.
“These strikes will happen daily. These are not just drug traffickers; they are narco-terrorists responsible for death and destruction in our cities,” Hegseth stated. He further emphasized that these organizations represent the “Al Qaeda” of the region and they will be pursued until they are neutralized as a threat to the U.S. population.
Hegseth also released a brief video capturing the moment the boat sped across the water before being struck and igniting in flames.
This incident marks the second attack on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel in the Pacific. Earlier on Wednesday, Hegseth confirmed a first strike that killed two other “narco-terrorists,” which took place late Tuesday in international waters.
The Trump administration has reported that at least 37 individuals have been killed since these airstrikes began in early September.
Overall, U.S. military operations have included nine airstrikes as pressure from President Trump on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has intensified.
The administration has bolstered its military presence near Venezuela, deploying warships, Marines, and special operations forces to address the influx of drugs into the U.S.
Earlier this month, President Trump authorized the CIA to launch operations in Venezuela, hinting at the potential for ground attacks. “If they come by land, we’re going to hit them very hard. They haven’t seen that yet, but we’re prepared,” Trump mentioned on Wednesday from the White House, stating plans to address Congress about these actions in due time.
