The United States military has conducted another lethal strike against a vessel it claims was involved in drug smuggling operations, releasing fiery footage of the attack in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. The action, which resulted in one fatality, brings the total number of people killed in such known operations to at least 105 since early September.
Footage and Details of the Latest Engagement
In a social media post on Monday, 23 December 2025, US Southern Command announced the strike, which was directed by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. The command stated that Joint Task Force Southern Spear targeted a "low-profile vessel" operated by designated terrorist organisations in international waters.
The released video shows water splashes near the craft before a second volley ignites the vessel's stern. As the fire grows, further impacts are seen before the footage concludes with the boat adrift and engulfed in flames. US Southern Command asserted that intelligence confirmed the boat was on known narco-trafficking routes and engaged in illegal operations, though it provided no public evidence to substantiate the claim.
Escalating Campaign and Mounting Scrutiny
This marks the 29th known strike of its kind since September, part of a Trump administration campaign ostensibly aimed at halting the flow of drugs into the United States and increasing pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. President Donald Trump has defended the aggressive tactics as a necessary escalation.
However, the policy faces growing criticism. US lawmakers and human rights activists have scrutinised the strikes, arguing the administration has offered scant proof that its targets are drug smugglers. They contend that the fatal engagements, which earlier videos suggest involve missiles or rocket-like projectiles, amount to extrajudicial killings.
Broader Regional Operations
The maritime strikes coincide with other intensified efforts in the region. The US Coast Guard has stepped up operations to interdict oil tankers in the Caribbean Sea, further extending the administration's campaign against the Maduro government. This multi-pronged approach continues to raise significant legal and ethical questions on the international stage.
