Three killed in latest US strike on alleged drug boat in Caribbean

November 2, 2025

The US military conducted another strike on a boat in the Caribbean, killing three men in what Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claims was an operation against drug smugglers connected to terrorism. These lethal strikes, which began in September and have reportedly killed at least 64 people, are facing intense scrutiny over their legality under international law, with the UN human rights chief declaring them unjustified violations. Latin American leaders, particularly Colombia's President Petro and Venezuela's President Maduro, have condemned the attacks as murder and political intimidation tactics disguised as counter-narcotics operations.

Who is affected

At least 64 people killed in US airstrikes since September
Three men killed in the most recent Saturday strike
Colombian President Gustavo Petro and his inner circle (subject to US sanctions)
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government
Citizens of Latin American countries whose boats have been targeted
Crew members on vessels traveling in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific

What action is being taken

The US is conducting military strikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific
The US has placed sanctions on Colombian President Petro and his inner circle
The US has removed Colombia's certification as an ally in the war on drugs
Washington is building up a force of warships, fighter jets, marines, spy planes, bombers and drones in the Caribbean

Why it matters

This represents a significant escalation in US counter-narcotics policy that raises serious legal and diplomatic concerns. The strikes challenge established norms of international law regarding use of lethal force, as confirmed by the UN human rights chief's assessment that they violate international human rights law. The operations are straining US relationships with traditionally allied Latin American nations like Colombia while potentially serving broader geopolitical goals beyond drug interdiction. The controversy also highlights domestic constitutional questions about executive war powers, as both Democratic and Republican lawmakers argue congressional approval should be required for such military actions.

What's next

Trump has threatened military action against land targets in Venezuela, though he has admitted this may require consent of Congress.

Read full article from source: BBC