U.S. Military Expands Counter-Narcotics Operations in the Pacific

In a significant escalation of the United States' counter-narcotics operations, the U.S. military conducted two fatal strikes on vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the eastern Pacific Ocean. The announcement was made by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, highlighting the Trump administration's intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking.

The strikes, executed over consecutive days, reportedly resulted in the deaths of five suspects. The military's involvement in these operations has been met with criticism, particularly from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who condemned the actions as murder and challenged their legality under international law.

Despite the controversy, President Trump defended the military strikes, asserting their legality and the necessity of such measures to preserve American lives. The administration's plans potentially include additional strikes against targets in Venezuela, pending congressional consultation, as part of a broader strategy to dismantle drug trafficking networks.