The Trump administration, under the direction of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, has conducted a series of lethal strikes on alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean, with the latest occurring off the coast of Venezuela. These strikes, the fourth such incident since early September, have been met with condemnation from critics, including legal scholars and human rights groups, who argue the attacks violate international and federal law. Despite these criticisms, the administration has continued the attacks, claiming they target “narco-terrorists” and are vital for national security, even without providing definitive proof of drug trafficking. Legal experts and members of Congress have expressed alarm, pointing to the lack of legal justification and potential for abuse of power.
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The US military conducted another strike in the Caribbean targeting a vessel allegedly involved in narco-trafficking, resulting in the deaths of all four individuals on board, according to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. This marks the fourth such strike since September, all targeting boats the administration links to cartels designated as terrorist organizations, and occurred in international waters near Venezuela, potentially escalating tensions. Though the exact terrorist affiliation was not specified, officials claim the boat was transporting narcotics to the US, and the administration has declared an armed conflict with these cartels. Legal concerns have been raised by experts and lawmakers regarding the legality of these strikes, with officials indicating these actions will continue.
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Colombian President Petro stated that no deaths should occur when intercepting speedboats suspected of drug smuggling, emphasizing a history of collaboration with U.S. agencies. He believes the use of more force than a pistol would violate the principle of proportionality. This comes amidst U.S. strikes in international waters, mainly targeting Venezuela, with questions raised by Democratic lawmakers and UN experts regarding their legality. Petro accused the Trump administration of humiliation and suggested his nation would not be subjugated, indicating escalating tensions and friction between the two countries.
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During Operation Gideon’s Chariots II, the IDF released footage illustrating Hamas terrorists firing upon forces from within Al-Shifa Hospital, citing this as further evidence of their use of civilian infrastructure for terror activities. The IDF stated it would continue to thwart terrorist activity while adhering to international law. Intense airstrikes in Gaza City resulted in reported deaths, with the Gaza Health Ministry warning of increased strain on hospitals, including the imminent shutdown of Al-Shifa due to a fuel shortage. The ground offensive to take control of the city continues with renewed vigor.
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The UK is considering a plan to leverage approximately £25 billion in frozen Russian assets to fund a “reparations loan” scheme for Ukraine, mirroring a similar EU initiative. The proposed scheme would involve issuing loans to Ukraine, potentially using the full value of the frozen assets as collateral. Brussels aims to avoid outright confiscation of the funds by swapping the Russian cash for zero-interest bonds. However, the legal and financial risks are being carefully considered. The UK’s approach will adhere to international law and prioritize economic and financial responsibility, as Europe seeks to address Ukraine’s looming budget deficit.
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The U.S. military conducted a strike on an alleged Venezuelan drug vessel in international waters, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. President Trump claimed the action targeted “violent drug trafficking cartels,” and the attack was recorded with evidence of cocaine and fentanyl. The strike followed an earlier attack that killed 11, escalating tensions and drawing condemnation from Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who vowed to defend against U.S. “aggression.” Legal experts raised concerns about the legality of the initial attack under international law, and Venezuela responded by flying fighter jets over a U.S. Navy destroyer.
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The U.S. military conducted another strike against a Venezuelan drug cartel vessel in international waters, resulting in the death of three individuals. President Trump stated the target was a violent drug trafficking cartel threatening U.S. interests and provided a video of the event, though details on the evidence were scarce. This strike follows a prior similar action, as the U.S. has a significant military buildup in the southern Caribbean, including aircraft and warships. The Trump administration has indicated further strikes may occur and claims self-defense as justification, while the Venezuelan government, accused of involvement, has accused the U.S. of seeking regime change.
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Venezuela’s interior minister refuted claims that the 11 individuals killed in the US military strike were members of the Tren de Aragua gang, asserting investigations revealed they were not drug traffickers. US officials confirmed the vessel was fired upon after changing course and heading back to shore. This has led to concerns among US lawmakers, with some questioning the legality of the action and the administration’s justification, particularly regarding the use of military force for law enforcement. The White House maintains the individuals were “narco-terrorists” and that the President acted within the laws of armed conflict, while Venezuela has responded with increased military readiness and has increased military defenses.
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Following a U.S. military strike in the Caribbean, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello condemned the action, refuting President Trump’s claim that those killed were “narcoterrorists.” Questions about the legality of the strike have emerged, particularly after reports that the vessel was turning back before it was attacked. The incident highlights the potential for escalating tensions, given increased U.S. military deployments near Venezuela as part of anti-drug operations, which Caracas views as a threat to its sovereignty. The U.S. has defended its actions, while lawmakers and analysts have raised concerns about the lack of justification and the potential for further destabilization in the region.
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According to two American officials, the U.S. military destroyed a boat off the coast of Venezuela with an initial strike, followed by a follow-up attack that killed those on board. The boat was under surveillance and appeared to turn toward shore before being struck, possibly by drones operated by Special Operations Command (SOCOM). The Trump administration has offered no evidence to support the assertion that the targeted individuals were “narcoterrorists,” and some officials, including Senator Rand Paul, have expressed concerns about the legality of the strike, given the lack of due process. A former State Department lawyer stated the U.S. is asserting the power to engage in the premeditated killing of people outside of armed conflict.
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John Q. Hosedrinker