According to information provided by the Southern Command of the U.S. Armed Forces, two strikes were carried out in the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean, and another one in the Caribbean Sea. It is specified that the destroyed vessels belonged to "terrorist organizations," used known routes for drug transportation, and were involved in illegal drug trade.
The operation to destroy vessels allegedly engaged in drug smuggling to the U.S. began in August of last year. Initially, it was reported that this move was aimed at putting pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who is considered one of the main drug lords in Washington.
Since the beginning of the operation, more than 40 vessels have been sunk, resulting in the deaths of about 150 people. At least one strike on coastal infrastructure has also been recorded.
However, opponents of U.S. President Donald Trump and human rights organizations are raising questions about the legality of the attacks in international waters, as well as warning of potential casualties among the civilian population.
