President Trump confirmed that a U.S. military strike in international waters off Venezuela killed six individuals aboard a small vessel, which he described as linked to narcotics trafficking and “narcoterrorist” networks.
He said the operation, ordered by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, was carried out under his authority as Commander in Chief. A video released by Trump showed the boat being struck from above and engulfed in flames.
This marks the fifth reported lethal strike by U.S. forces in the Caribbean this fall, and follows a string of similar operations against vessels Trump’s administration accuses of supplying drugs to the U.S.
Critics and lawmakers have questioned the legal justification of using military force against suspected smugglers, especially without direct evidence publicly disclosed. Some argue the strikes may overstep international law and risk escalation.
Venezuelan officials have denounced the action, calling it an act of aggression, while the White House continues to frame the campaign as necessary counter-drug warfare.