US Military Carries Out Eighth Strike on Suspected Drug Vessel in Eastern Pacific

US Military Carries Out Eighth Strike on Suspected Drug Vessel in Eastern Pacific

The U.S. military conducted yet another strike on a suspected drug vessel, marking the eighth such operation this year. This latest intervention occurred in the Eastern Pacific, as announced by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

The operation took place on Tuesday against a boat believed to be involved in drug trafficking. Throughout the year, similar strikes have largely targeted vessels in the Caribbean.

During the announcement, Hegseth stated, “At the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization engaged in narco-trafficking in the Eastern Pacific. Intelligence indicated that the vessel was implicated in illicit narcotics smuggling and was following a known drug-trafficking route, carrying significant quantities of narcotics.”

He elaborated, “Two narco-terrorists were onboard at the time of the strike, which occurred in international waters. Both terrorists were eliminated, and no U.S. forces sustained injuries during this operation.”

Recent Strike Highlights Ongoing Military Operations

This latest strike is part of an ongoing series of military operations aimed at disrupting narco-trafficking. Earlier in the week, Hegseth reported that three alleged narco-terrorists were killed in a separate U.S. strike targeting a drug smuggling vessel linked to Colombia’s National Liberation Army.

That operation, referred to as a “lethal kinetic strike,” took place last Friday in international waters and also followed President Trump’s directive.

Hegseth explained, “Our intelligence confirmed that the vessel was involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, navigating a recognized drug-trafficking route, and carrying substantial narcotics. Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike.”

He further noted, “All three terrorists were eliminated, with no U.S. personnel harmed in any way during this strike.”

Colombian Rebel Group as Target

Colombia’s Ejército de Liberación Nacional, also known as ELN, is classified as a Designated Terrorist Organization. Hegseth compared the Colombian rebel group to Al Qaeda, indicating its significant threat level and operational similarities.

In a developing narrative, tensions have arisen following President Trump’s strong response to claims made by Colombia’s government regarding the impacts of these strikes. Reports surfaced accusing the U.S. military of causing collateral damage, including the death of local fishermen.

Rising Death Toll from Military Campaign

According to reports, the ongoing military campaign aimed at tackling suspected drug-smuggling vessels has resulted in a minimum of 33 deaths. These operations began last month as part of Trump’s broader strategy to disarm transnational cartels aggressively.

For instance, last Thursday, the U.S. military targeted what President Trump described as a “very large drug-carrying submarine” in the Caribbean, resulting in the death of two suspected narco-terrorists and the capture of two others.

Additionally, a strike on a vessel off the coast of Venezuela on Tuesday reportedly killed six suspected smugglers. This ongoing pressure aims to dismantle criminal organizations involved in the trafficking of illicit drugs.

Future Operations Expected

The U.S. government’s commitment to disrupting drug trafficking operations shows no sign of waning. With these strategic military interventions in both the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, officials are emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address the complex challenges of drug smuggling.

As naval forces continue to patrol international waters, further actions may be expected in the coming days. U.S. officials indicate that they are prepared to respond swiftly to any threats posed by drug trafficking organizations, emphasizing national security and international cooperation.

This story is continuing to evolve. Please check back for timely updates.