Introduction
The United States military has confirmed that eight people were killed in fresh attacks on vessels operating in international waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, intensifying controversy over Washington’s expanding military operations in Latin America.
Details of the Latest US Strikes
According to a statement released by the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), American forces carried out what were described as “lethal kinetic strikes” against three separate vessels on Monday. The operation was reportedly authorised by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
SOUTHCOM said three people were killed on the first vessel, two on the second, and three on the third. The military claimed those targeted were connected to drug trafficking activities, though no evidence was publicly presented to support the allegation.
Rising Death Toll and Legal Concerns
These latest deaths add to a growing toll from similar US military actions in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Since September, at least 90 people have reportedly been killed in dozens of strikes near Venezuelan waters.
International law experts have raised serious concerns, warning that these operations may amount to extrajudicial killings carried out without judicial oversight or transparent accountability.
US Lawmakers Question Military Conduct
The campaign has also drawn scrutiny from US lawmakers. Defense Secretary Hegseth has been questioned over whether he personally authorised follow-up strikes on vessels where survivors were reportedly left clinging to wreckage after earlier attacks.
Such allegations have intensified debates in Washington about the rules of engagement and the legal framework governing US military actions at sea.
Expanded Military Presence Near Venezuela
Beyond air and naval strikes, the Pentagon has significantly increased its military footprint across the region. Warships, a submarine, drones, and fighter jets have been deployed to the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico, with US officials citing efforts to combat drug smuggling.
Last week, US forces also seized a Venezuelan oil tanker, a move that further escalated tensions. President Donald Trump later told reporters, “I assume we’re going to keep the oil.”
Trinidad and Tobago’s Role
Adding to regional unease, Trinidad and Tobago has authorised US military aircraft to use its airports in the coming weeks. Officials said the facilities would support logistical operations, including supply deliveries and personnel rotations.
Located just 12 kilometres from Venezuela, the island nation has openly backed the US military buildup. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar stated she would rather see drug traffickers “blown to pieces” than allow them to endanger her citizens.
Venezuela’s Response
Venezuela has strongly condemned the strikes and the growing US presence, accusing Washington of seeking to justify foreign intervention in order to seize the country’s vast oil and gas resources.
President Nicolás Maduro announced that Venezuela would halt gas supplies to Trinidad and Tobago in response, according to state-run media.
Conclusion
As US military operations expand across Latin American waters, questions are mounting over their legality, humanitarian impact, and long-term consequences for regional stability.