U.S. Military Strikes Alleged Drug Vessel in Pacific

The U.S. military struck a vessel allegedly carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific on December 22, 2025, killing one person. This operation is part of a broader campaign that has seen the military target at least twenty-nine vessels since early September, resulting in the deaths of one hundred five individuals.

The U.S. Southern Command reported that the vessel was a 'low-profile' boat operating on known narco-trafficking routes and was linked to a designated terrorist organization, although the specific organization was not named.

The strikes have been justified by the Trump administration as part of a 'non-international armed conflict' with drug cartels, despite pushback from congressional Democrats and some Republicans who argue these actions lack proper authorization.

Critics have also raised concerns regarding the sufficiency of evidence for the alleged drug trafficking. The military's boat strikes began on September 2, and previous operations have included targeting submarines and semi-submersible vessels.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government has criticized the strikes, denying collaboration with drug cartels and accusing the Trump administration of seeking regime change. President Trump has suggested a blockade of sanctioned oil vessels entering or exiting Venezuela and has seized two oil tankers from the country this month.

He stated that it would be 'smart' for Maduro to leave power, indicating the administration's continued pressure on the Venezuelan government.