WASHINGTON (AP) — Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced a series of updates on Monday strike on boat He was charged with attacking two ships in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, killing six people, and transporting drugs.
Sunday’s two strikes will result in: Total number of known attacks The death toll rises to 19 and at least 75 since the Trump administration launched a campaign against drug trafficking in South American waters. Pressure tactics against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
“These ships are known to our intelligence services and illegal drug smugglingwere in possession of drugs and were traveling along known drug trafficking routes,” Hegseth posted on social media.
The Trump administration has provided no evidence for its claims, and lawmakers, including Republicans, have demanded: Detailed information about who is being targeted and the legal justification for the strike.
secretary of state marco rubio and Hegseth met with a bipartisan group of lawmakers Those overseeing national security issues last week got their first high-level glimpse into the legal basis and strategy behind the attack.
Democrats argued it wasn’t enough, but Senate Republicans held a vote the next day. veto a bill that would impose restraints Regarding President Donald Trump’s ability to launch an attack against Venezuela without Congressional authorization.
The attacks began in early September and have primarily targeted ships in the Caribbean, but are increasingly targeting ships. Moved to the Eastern Pacificmuch of the cocaine from the world’s largest producers is smuggled. The Trump administration also huge military power In South American waters, aircraft carrier to this region.
President Trump justified the attack by saying the United States is in this situation. “Armed conflict” with drug cartels and claims that the boat is operated by foreign terrorist organization American cities are full of drugs.
The attack and military footprint have heightened speculation about efforts to oust President Maduro. charged with drug terrorism In the US. The Venezuelan leader said the US government: “Fake” a war against him.
In recent attacks, Hegseth, as is customary, posted a video showing a boat floating before exploding in a fireball. The footage then cuts to what appears to be another boat moving through the water, seemingly carrying cargo. An explosion occurs, and flames and smoke pour from the ship.
