Summary
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the U.S. military plans to continue attacking vessels suspected of drug trafficking, especially near Venezuela. These actions, supported by the Trump administration, have raised concerns about potential violations of the laws of war. Hegseth emphasized the goal of deterring drug trafficking rather than capturing vessels.
Key Facts
- The U.S. military has been targeting boats believed to be involved in drug trafficking.
- These attacks took place near Venezuela, with a major incident happening in September.
- Over 80 people have died in these maritime strikes in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.
- There are legal concerns about the strikes potentially violating the laws of war.
- The Defense Department's rules say it's against the law to attack shipwrecked survivors.
- Secretary Hegseth authorized a Navy admiral to carry out these strikes.
- There are conflicting reports about Hegseth's commands regarding a second strike.
- Hegseth claims that deterrence is key, implying the prevention of repeat drug trafficking efforts.
