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US Strikes Alleged Drug Vessel in Pacific, Kills Two

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The US carried out its eighth confirmed strike against a suspected drug vessel in international waters off the Pacific coast, killing two people. Secretary of War Hegseth announced the strike on social media, stating it was part of the campaign to stop narco terrorism and compare cartel networks to Al Qaeda. This attack marks a broadening of operations against drug smuggling networks, targeting cartels operating beyond traditional Caribbean routes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US has carried out eight strikes against suspected drug vessels since September 2, with the previous seven strikes occurring in the Caribbean.
  • The strike on the Pacific side is the first of its kind in the area, marking a broader expansion of operations against drug smuggling networks.
  • Secretary of War Hegseth compared cartel networks to Al Qaeda, stating that there will be no refuge or forgiveness for those involved in narco terrorism.
  • The vessel struck was suspected to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling and was transiting along a known narco trafficking route.
  • At least 34 people have been killed in strikes on alleged drug boats.
  • The Trump administration has informed Congress that the US is in a "non international armed conflict" with drug cartels, arguing that the narcotics they smuggle constitute an "armed attack."
  • President Trump has accused President Gustavo Petro of being an "illegal drug leader" and has announced that the US will cut off subsidies to Colombia.

Statistics:

  • 34 people have been killed in strikes on alleged drug boats.
  • 8 strikes have been carried out against suspected drug vessels since September 2.
  • The previous seven strikes occurred in the Caribbean.
  • The strike on the Pacific side is the first of its kind in the area.
  • At least $10 billion in illicit narcotics are smuggled annually into the US, constituting an "armed attack."

Sources:

  • ANI, Washington [location], October 24.
  • CBS News, "[title]".
  • SyndiGate Media Inc. ().
  • Truth Social, "[title]".
  • aninews.in, Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

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