Washington, D.C. – The US military has carried out a strike on a Venezuelan drug-carrying vessel, killing 11 people and marking a significant escalation in the country’s efforts to combat international narcotics trafficking. The operation, which appears to be the first in the southern Caribbean targeting drug cartels directly, was highlighted in a video released on social media by official US channels.
Details of the Strike
During a White House news briefing, officials confirmed:
“We just, over the last few minutes, literally shot out a boat, a drug-carrying boat, a lot of drugs in that boat. And there’s more where that came from. We have a lot of drugs pouring into our country, coming in for a long time.”
The vessel was identified by US authorities as being operated by members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, designated as a terrorist group in February 2025.
Route and Purpose of the Drugs
Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the seized drugs were likely headed to Trinidad or another Caribbean country, illustrating the international reach of the trafficking network.
“Suffice to say the president is going to be on offence against drug cartels and drug trafficking in the United States,” Rubio stated.
The strike destroyed the vessel, with video evidence showing the explosion and the aftermath, underscoring the severity of the operation.
Allegations Against Venezuelan Government
US officials claimed that Tren de Aragua is controlled by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, an allegation denied by the Venezuelan government.
Venezuelan authorities maintain that Tren de Aragua is no longer active in the country, following a prison raid in 2023 that dismantled the group.
Implications for US Drug Policy
This operation reflects a more aggressive US approach to tackling drug trafficking, extending military measures beyond domestic borders to Caribbean and South American waters. Officials have indicated that similar operations may continue as part of a broader crackdown on transnational narcotics networks affecting the United States.
Safety and Regional Concerns
Experts caution that while the operation targets criminal organizations, it may increase tensions in the southern Caribbean region, affecting nearby nations and international shipping lanes. Residents and authorities in the Caribbean are advised to remain alert to potential maritime restrictions or an increased military presence.
Conclusion
The US military strike on the Venezuelan drug vessel, resulting in 11 casualties, represents a major escalation in efforts to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the United States. With ongoing international allegations and regional concerns, this event highlights the challenges posed by transnational drug cartels.
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