American Military Conducts Deadly Strike in Eastern Pacific, Leading to Four Deaths
According to a senior defense official, the US armed forces carried out a fatal strike on a boat in the Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of four individuals.
“Joint Task Force Southern Spear carried out a deadly attack on a craft linked to a terrorist group in international waters. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was traveling along a known narco-trafficking route and was engaged in illicit drug transport. A total of four male narco-terrorists were killed, and no American forces were injured.”
Context and Prior Strikes
This announcement comes a day after an announcement regarding a blockade of all targeted oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela. In that announcement on social media, the US president alleged Venezuela of using oil revenues to fund drug trafficking and criminal activities, pledging to increase the military buildup.
Only on Tuesday, US defense officials stated it had conducted strikes on three boats suspected of smuggling narcotics in the Pacific, killing eight people. Since 2 September, more than 20 military engagements have resulted in the deaths of at least 99 people, the majority off the coast of Venezuela.
Government Justifies Tactics Amid Pressure
The administration has encountered growing demands to make public video of a 2 September vessel attack. But, the defense secretary have refused to do so. The administration has defended its campaign as a successful operation, arguing it has stopped drugs from reaching US shores and has dismissed concerns that it is stretching the limits of lawful warfare.
Although the administration has stated the campaign is about halting drugs headed to the US, comments from a top official appeared to suggest a broader geopolitical aim. In a recent interview, the chief of staff said the leader “aims to keep on blowing boats up until the Venezuelan president cries uncle.”
This indicates the military campaign may be part of a push to oust Venezuela's current leadership.
