U.S. Southern Command reports lethal strike on vessel linked to drug trafficking

The U.S. Southern Command announced that on Aug. 23 a Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere operation targeted a low-profile vessel operating along known drug-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific. The strike, described as a "lethal kinetic" action, resulted in the deaths of two people the military said were involved in narco-trafficking.

"When I ordered the establishment of Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere, it was precisely for this purpose: to accelerate, synchronize, and execute lethal actions against these destabilizing narco-terrorist networks," said Gen. Francis L. Donovan, commander of U.S. Southern Command.

The announcement noted that intelligence had confirmed the vessel's participation in drug-trafficking activities. This is the latest in a series of maritime strikes the Pentagon has carried out against suspected trafficking vessels, a practice that began during the previous administration and has drawn criticism.

The statement added that the operation aimed to disrupt illicit networks, dismantle leadership structures, and reduce cartel-related violence in the region.