Tom Homan, who served under President Trump, defended the administration’s military strategy aimed at combating drug trafficking. His comments came shortly after the U.S. deployed warships and fighter jets in the Caribbean, issuing warnings directed at drug cartels.
“I support that. There’s a reason the president labeled these groups as terrorist organizations,” Homan stated during an interview. “These cartels have caused more American deaths than all the terrorist groups combined.”
He went on to emphasize, “They’ve taken more lives than any other conflict. So, yes, we are at war with the cartels.”
Last week, the U.S. military heightened its focus on cartels in the southern Caribbean by launching a “drug ship” operation, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals. The operation targeted the Venezuela-based Tren de Aragua group, which the administration has branded a terrorist entity.
“At my command early this morning, the U.S. military initiated an operation against Tren de Aragua’s narcoterrorists who were actively threatening the Southcom area,” Trump stated in a post on True Social.
“TDA is recognized as a foreign terrorist organization controlled by Nicolas Maduro, accountable for murder, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and perpetuating violence and fear in the U.S. and throughout the Western Hemisphere,” he added.
In response, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the operation, labeling it “an extravagant, unjust, immoral, and utterly criminal threat,” and emphasized the need for “the greatest preparation” to safeguard his citizens.
On a different note, Defense Secretary Pete Hegses and Speaker Din Kane made an unexpected visit to Puerto Rico, coinciding with the deployment of 10 fighters amidst rising tensions.
Meanwhile, Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) reacted to Vice President Vance’s remarks regarding the military strike. “Eliminating cartel members who are endangering our citizens is the most effective use of our military,” Vance had asserted in a post on Social Platform X.
Paul retorted, expressing skepticism over Vance’s comments. “Has he read To Kill a Mockingbird? Does he think about what consequences arise when the accused are executed without trial or a chance to speak?” he remarked.
The U.S. military action has sparked discussions surrounding possible violations of maritime law and human rights treaties.
