The US military has confirmed that eight people were killed during air and naval strikes targeting vessels allegedly linked to drug trafficking in the Eastern Pacific. The operation was carried out on the direct orders of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, according to US officials.
US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced that American forces conducted coordinated air and maritime strikes against three boats accused of transporting narcotics and maintaining links with terrorist organizations in the Eastern Pacific. The command said the operation was authorized by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
Three Boats Destroyed, 8 Killed
In a written statement, SOUTHCOM said all individuals on board the targeted vessels were killed. According to the breakdown provided, three people were on the first boat, two on the second, and three on the third, bringing the total death toll to eight.
US officials maintained that the vessels were operating in international waters at the time of the strikes.
Washington’s Hardening Stance Against Drug Cartels
The operation is seen as part of the U.S. President Donald Trump’s broader strategy to confront Latin American drug cartels through direct and on-site military action. Trump previously signed an executive order authorizing expanded and more effective use of the US military in counter-narcotics operations.
Within this framework, the United States deployed a naval force consisting of submarines and warships to waters off Venezuela in late August. Defense Secretary Hegseth has also stated that US forces are prepared for a range of scenarios in Venezuela, including operations aimed at regime change.
Rising Tensions in Regional Security
The latest strikes underscore Washington’s increasing reliance on military force to counter drug trafficking and address regional security concerns. The operation highlights growing US military activity in the Eastern Pacific and signals that such actions may continue in the period ahead.
