US Military Conducts 30th Strike on Suspected Drug-Smuggling Vessel in Eastern Pacific

The U.S. military has conducted its 30th airstrike since September on a vessel suspected of drug smuggling in the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in two fatalities. This operation is part of an ongoing campaign under President Donald Trump's administration, which has led to at least 107 deaths. The administration describes these actions as part of an "armed conflict" with drug cartels to curb narcotics trafficking into the United States.

The campaign has expanded military activity near Venezuela, targeting infrastructure allegedly used by drug traffickers. This includes seizing sanctioned oil tankers and conducting strikes near Venezuelan dock facilities. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro contends that the campaign aims to unseat him.

These strikes have drawn scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers, especially after reports that one initial attack involved a follow-up strike killing survivors. The campaign reflects broader tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela and raises questions about the legal and humanitarian implications of military action against alleged drug smuggling operations.