The US military recently carried out a strike on a suspected drug-trafficking boat in the eastern Pacific, resulting in two deaths, as reported by US Southern Command. This action was part of a broader campaign named Operation Southern Spear, launched during the Trump administration to combat drug trafficking.
On February 5, General Francis L. Donovan, who just took command of SOUTHCOM, authorized this strike, which aimed at vessels tied to terrorist organizations. Fortunately, no US military personnel were hurt in the operation.
Since these strikes began in September, at least 119 people have reportedly died in attacks on suspected drug vessels. The operation has faced criticism for its lack of transparency. Military officials admitted in congressional hearings that they do not know the identities of all individuals on the targeted boats.
Concerns about the legality of these strikes are growing. Critics in Congress, including legal experts, argue that some attacks may not adhere to international law. One especially controversial strike even resulted in killing survivors of a previous attack.
While the administration claims this is part of an “armed conflict” against drug cartels, there’s skepticism. Some officials have privately acknowledged that part of this military focus aims to remove Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. In early January, the US apprehended Maduro in Caracas and brought him to New York on charges he has denied. Congress is increasingly questioning whether the military’s approach is the best way to deal with drug trafficking, advocating instead for prosecution rather than lethal strikes.
Family members of some victims are even suing the government for wrongful death, adding to the ongoing debate about the operation’s ethical and legal standing. As this situation unfolds, it highlights the complex interplay of military action, drug policy, and human rights in US foreign affairs.
For more on military operations around drug trafficking, refer to SOUTHCOM statements.
