The United States military has conducted a targeted strike on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel off the coast of Venezuela, killing four individuals on board, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed on Friday.According to Hegseth, the operation was part of ongoing efforts to disrupt narcotics trafficking routes in the Caribbean region.
The boat, believed to be carrying large quantities of illegal drugs, was intercepted and destroyed after it failed to comply with warning signals from US forces.“Preliminary reports indicate that four suspected traffickers were killed in the engagement,” Hegseth said, adding that the strike was carried out “in accordance with international law and US counter-narcotics policy.”
The US Defense Department stated that investigations are ongoing to identify the deceased and assess the full extent of the drug operation. Venezuelan authorities have yet to issue an official response.