U.S. strikes 4 more alleged drug boats in Pacific, killing 14

Published: Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 2:02 pm

U.S. Military Conducts Strikes on Alleged Drug Traffickers in Pacific

Washington – The U.S. military conducted three separate strikes on Monday against four vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals and one survivor. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operations on X, stating that the vessels were targeted along known narco-trafficking routes.

According to Hegseth, the strikes were based on intelligence indicating the vessels were carrying narcotics. The first strike involved eight individuals, the second four, and the third three. All strikes occurred in international waters, and no U.S. forces were harmed. Mexican authorities assumed responsibility for coordinating the rescue of the survivor.

The strikes are part of a broader campaign against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, initiated by President Trump. The total death toll from this campaign now exceeds 50. President Trump, currently on a trip in Asia, has stated his administration will brief Congress on the strikes but will not seek a declaration of war. He has also indicated that further actions, potentially including land strikes in Venezuela, could be considered.

Senator Rand Paul has criticized the military actions, calling them "extrajudicial killings" and stating that Congress has received no information from the administration regarding the strikes.

BNN's Perspective: While the administration's commitment to combating drug trafficking is understandable, the lack of transparency and the potential for escalating military actions raise concerns. A balanced approach that prioritizes both national security and adherence to international law is crucial. Congress should be fully informed and involved in these critical decisions.

Keywords: U.S. military, drug trafficking, strikes, eastern Pacific Ocean, narco-terrorists, President Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Senator Rand Paul, international waters, extrajudicial killings, Venezuela, narcotics, campaign

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