The U.S. military reported Wednesday that it conducted strikes on five suspected drug-smuggling vessels over the past two days, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals. According to U.S. Southern Command, which is responsible for military operations in South America, the strikes took place on Tuesday and Wednesday. The specific location of the operations was not disclosed, though previous such actions have occurred in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean.

Southern Command released a video on social media depicting Tuesday's strike, showing three boats traveling in close formation. The military asserted that the vessels were traveling along known narcotics trafficking routes and "had transferred narcotics between the three vessels prior to the strikes." However, the military did not provide specific evidence to support this claim. The initial strike resulted in three fatalities, according to the military's statement. The fate of those who jumped overboard from the targeted vessels remains unclear.

These strikes are part of an ongoing effort by the U.S. military to disrupt drug trafficking operations in the region. The policy, which has seen increased activity in recent years, aims to curb the flow of illegal narcotics into the United States. Proponents of the strategy argue that it is a necessary measure to combat organized crime and protect national security. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential for civilian casualties and the legal basis for such operations. Some have questioned whether the military's involvement in drug interdiction efforts is an appropriate use of resources.

The U.S. Southern Command continues to monitor activity in the region and conduct operations as deemed necessary. Further details regarding the strikes, including the specific types of vessels targeted and the intelligence leading to the operations, have not been released.