Pacific Waters See Latest US Strike on Suspected Drug Boat

Recent Event:

• US forces targeted and destroyed a suspected drug trafficking vessel in the Pacific Ocean.
• Casualties: 2 individuals killed on board, no US casualties reported.

Background:

• The boat was under surveillance by US intelligence.
• Believed to be transporting drugs along a known trafficking route in international waters.

Recent Strikes:

• This is the eighth strike since early September, the first in the Pacific.
• A video shows a long, blue speedboat hit by US ordnance.

Statements:

• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth: "Those involved in drug trafficking will face consequences, comparing them to terrorists."

Leaked Memo:

• Trump administration revealed US is in a "non-international armed conflict" with drug-trafficking organizations.
• Total Killed: At least 36 people in these strikes.
• Recent attack on a semi-submersible vessel in the Caribbean.
• Two men survived a strike last week, sent back to Colombia and Ecuador.

US Justification:

• Strikes are necessary to combat drug trafficking.
• Details about identities and organizations remain scarce.

Military Deployment:

• Around 10,000 US troops, dozens of military aircraft and ships deployed to the Caribbean.

Rising Tensions:

• US and Colombia tensions rising.
• President Trump criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
• Accused Petro of encouraging drug production.
• US will no longer provide subsidies to Colombia.

Geographical Context:

• Colombia and Ecuador have extensive Pacific coastlines.
• Often used to transport drugs northward.

Drug Trafficking Routes:

• US officials estimate most cocaine bound for the US passes through the Pacific.
• Drug seizures in the Caribbean account for a smaller percentage but are increasing.

Current Situation:

• Significant military presence and ongoing strikes aimed at disrupting drug trafficking routes.