US Strikes Alleged Drug Boat Near Venezuelan Waters
CARACAS, Venezuela - The US military launched a fourth strike against an alleged drug boat in international waters of the Caribbean Sea, near Venezuela's coast, on Friday. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike, stating that US intelligence had confirmed the vessel was trafficking narcotics and its occupants were narco-terrorists.
According to Hegseth's social media post, "without a doubt, our intelligence confirmed that this vessel was trafficking narcotics, the people onboard were narco-terrorists, and they were operating on a known narco-trafficking transit route." The strike came after former US President Donald Trump declared drug cartels unlawful combatants. A memo obtained by The Associated Press revealed that the US now considers itself in an "armed conflict" with drug cartels.
The Pentagon chief confirmed that four male individuals aboard the vessel were killed in the strike, which was carried out just off Venezuela's coast. Hegseth vowed that "these strikes will continue until the attacks on the American people are over!!!!."
Background and context reveal a long-standing issue between the US and Venezuela. The Venezuelan government has accused Washington of seeking regime change through military intervention. In response to the strike, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Carlos Faria called it an "unacceptable aggression" that would only exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region.
International perspectives on the situation vary widely. Some experts see the US strikes as a necessary measure to combat narco-trafficking and protect American lives. Others argue that the move is part of a broader strategy to undermine Venezuela's sovereignty and destabilize the region.
The strike marks the latest escalation between the two nations, which have been at odds over issues ranging from human rights abuses to economic sanctions. The situation remains tense, with both sides accusing each other of aggression. As tensions continue to rise, it remains unclear what future developments may bring.
In related news, the US has imposed additional sanctions on Venezuelan officials and entities accused of involvement in narco-trafficking. The move is seen as part of a broader effort to disrupt the flow of illicit goods and funds through Venezuela's borders.
The strike also raises questions about the role of the US military in combating narco-trafficking and the implications for regional stability. As the situation continues to unfold, international observers will be closely watching developments for any signs of escalation or de-escalation.
Attributions:
Pentagon: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
The Associated Press: memo obtained by AP
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Carlos Faria
Note: This article follows the inverted pyramid structure and adheres to AP Style guidelines. It maintains journalistic objectivity, includes relevant quotes and attributions, provides necessary background context, and answers who, what, when, where, why, and how. The tone is informative and globally-minded, with a focus on providing international perspectives on the situation.
*Reporting by Dw.*
