Washington, D.C. – The United States has struck another vessel allegedly carrying drugs from Venezuela, killing three people, President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday. The incident marks the second military operation in recent weeks targeting suspected narcoterrorists from Venezuela.
US Strike on Alleged Drug Boat
In a post on Truth Social, Trump detailed that the strike took place while the boat was in international waters. The vessel was reportedly transporting illegal narcotics aimed at entering the United States. Trump shared a nearly 30-second video showing the explosion of the boat followed by flames, although he did not provide evidence to confirm the vessel was indeed carrying drugs.
First Strike on Venezuelan Drug Boat
This operation follows a similar strike on September 2, where 11 people were killed aboard a suspected drug boat also originating from Venezuela. The first strike raised concerns over potential violations of international law, but Trump defended the action, calling it necessary to deter further drug trafficking operations.
“Obviously, they won’t be doing it again,” Trump said. “And I think a lot of other people won’t be doing it again. When they watch that tape, they’re going to say, ‘Let’s not do this.’”
US Military Buildup in the Caribbean
The US has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, with at least eight warships and a nuclear-powered submarine dispatched to the region. This move is part of a broader strategy to crack down on drug smuggling into the US.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed the validity of the second strike during an interview with Fox News, stating, “We have 100% fidelity and certainty that that boat was involved in trafficking drugs.” Rubio added that the number of drug smuggling boats heading to the US had significantly decreased since the first strike.
Maduro Denounces US Actions as Aggression
Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro condemned the US strikes, calling them an “aggression” against Venezuela. Speaking at a press conference, Maduro described the situation as a political, judicial, and military aggression.
“This isn’t tension. It is an aggression all down the line,” Maduro said. “We will fully exercise our **legitimate right to defend ourselves.”
Maduro also pointed out the breakdown of communications with the Trump administration, reaffirming his belief that the US is attempting to oust him from power.
Next Steps and International Response
The situation has intensified diplomatic tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with Trump’s administration facing criticism from Caracas over its military operations in the region. As the US continues to assert its actions are aimed at protecting national security, Maduro’s government maintains that it is an ongoing effort to destabilize Venezuela.
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