Trump Administration's Military Strikes Result in Over 100 Deaths

The U.S. military struck two more alleged drug-carrying boats on December 18, 2025, bringing the total death count from the Trump administration's military campaign to upwards of 100. According to U.S.

Southern Command, the latest strikes occurred in the Eastern Pacific along known narco-trafficking routes. These boats were reportedly operated by designated terrorist organizations, although the military did not specify the operators.

The strikes killed five male narco-terrorists, three in one boat and two in another. Since the boat strikes began on September 2, 2025, a total of 104 people have been killed. The Trump administration has justified the campaign, claiming the U.S. is engaged in a 'non-international armed conflict' with drug cartels.

However, this military action has generated controversy, with some Democrats and Republicans questioning the legal authority for such strikes and the evidence linking the boats to drug trafficking intended for the U.S.

Congress has seen multiple resolutions introduced by Democrats to curtail these strikes, but they have consistently been voted down by House Republicans. Additionally, reports have emerged about a follow-on strike targeting survivors of the initial September attack.

The strikes are part of a broader military buildup in the Caribbean and near Latin America under 'Operation Southern Spear,' a counter-narcotics mission. President Trump has indicated he may expand the campaign to include strikes on land-based drug targets.

This military escalation has faced criticism from the governments of Venezuela and Colombia, with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accusing Trump of seeking regime change due to alleged collaboration with drug cartels.