American Military Executes Deadly Strike in Pacific, Resulting in Four Deaths
According to a high-ranking military official, the American military carried out a lethal strike on a vessel in the eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of four people.
“Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a deadly attack on a vessel linked to a Designated Terrorist Organization in international waters. Intelligence verified the vessel was traveling along a established narco-trafficking route and was engaged in illicit drug transport. A total of four male drug traffickers were eliminated, and no US military forces were harmed.”
Background and Prior Strikes
The statement comes a day after an announcement regarding a blockade of all sanctioned oil tankers entering and leaving Venezuela. In that announcement on social media, the US president alleged Venezuela of using oil profits to fund drug trafficking and other crimes, vowing to escalate the military presence.
Only on Tuesday, US defense officials stated it had carried out strikes on three boats suspected of trafficking drugs in the Pacific, killing eight people. Beginning on 2 September, more than 20 military engagements have resulted in the deaths of at least 99 individuals, the majority off the coast of Venezuela.
Government Defends Tactics Amidst Pressure
The administration has faced increasing demands to release video of a September 2nd vessel attack. However, the defense secretary have refused to do so. The administration has supported its campaign as a successful operation, saying it has stopped drugs from reaching US shores and has dismissed concerns that it is exceeding the limits of lawful warfare.
Although the administration has stated the campaign is about halting drugs destined for the US, comments from a top official appeared to suggest a broader political aim. In a recent interview, the chief of staff remarked the president “aims to keep on blowing boats up until the Venezuelan president surrenders or concedes.”
This suggests the series of strikes may be part of a strategy to remove Venezuela's current leadership.
