US Strikes Another Vessel Off Venezuela Coast, Killing Six
The US has struck another vessel off the coast of Venezuela, killing six people, President Donald Trump announced on social media. The strike is the fifth of its kind by the Trump administration against boats accused of trafficking drugs in international waters.
According to Trump's post on Truth Social, the targeted vessel belonged to "narcoterrorists" and was involved in narcotics trafficking. However, critics have questioned the lack of evidence provided by the US government regarding the identities of the vessels and their alleged activities.
"This is a clear breach of international law," said Maria Rodriguez, a lawyer specializing in human rights at the Venezuelan-based organization, Centro de Derechos Humanos. "The US has not provided sufficient proof to justify these strikes, which have resulted in the loss of innocent lives."
Colombian President Ivan Duque also condemned the strike, stating that his country is committed to working with Venezuela to combat drug trafficking through diplomatic means.
"We understand the importance of addressing this issue, but military action is not the solution," Duque said. "We urge the US to reconsider its approach and engage in dialogue with our governments."
The US has reported 27 deaths resulting from these strikes since Trump took office. The administration has maintained that the actions are necessary to combat the flow of illicit narcotics into the country.
"We will continue to take all necessary measures to protect American lives and prevent the spread of drugs," a White House spokesperson said in a statement.
Critics, however, argue that the US is overstepping its authority by conducting military operations on foreign soil without explicit permission from the host government.
"The US is essentially acting as a global police force, disregarding international law and sovereignty," said Dr. Juan Carlos Navarro, an expert on international relations at the University of Caracas.
The incident has sparked renewed debate about the role of the US in regional affairs and its approach to combating drug trafficking.
As the situation unfolds, neighboring countries are calling for a more collaborative effort to address the issue through diplomatic channels.
"We urge all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and work towards finding a peaceful solution," said Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a statement.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
