American Forces Strike Another Narcotics Vessel Near Venezuelan Shoreline, Trump Announces
On Sunday, President Trump told a large gathering of sailors stating that American military units targeted another vessel unlawfully carrying narcotics near the coast of the South American nation the previous evening. He made these remarks at a ceremony celebrating the US navy’s 250th anniversary held at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia.
The president additionally stated asserting that the United States would now begin addressing narcotics smuggling occurring overland. This was not immediately clear if he was referring to an operation revealed last Friday from defense secretary Secretary Hegseth.
Navy's Involvement in Counter-Drug Operations
During his speech, the president praised naval forces their support of the mission aimed at eliminate cartel terrorists from the seas. He asserted, “No more boats remain in the water. They are impossible to locate”.
US naval forces have additionally been deployed in an armed conflict with narcotics organizations, resulting in multiple attacks in the Caribbean targeting alleged fast-boats involved in narcotics smuggling.
“Should drug smugglers cease arriving by sea, we must turn our attention to land routes, as they will be compelled to travel overland. Let me assure you, that will not end favorably for them,” the president stated.
International Reaction and Juridical Concerns
UN officials has censured American military actions—actions that Washington defends by claiming they counter “narco-terrorist” individuals of the Tren de Aragua group, designated a foreign terrorist organization, in international waters—as unlawful killings.
In September, United Nations experts declared, “Governments are not permitted under international law to summarily execute suspected drug traffickers”. The UN added, “Criminal activities should be disrupted, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the rule of law, including through international cooperation”.
Naval Celebrations During Government Shutdown
The navy celebrations take place amid a closure of the US government which has resulted in some military personnel working unpaid. The president blamed Democrats of enabling the government closure and attempting “to destroy this wonderful celebration of the US Navy’s Birthday”.
On Friday night, Trump posted on social media, “In my view, ‘THE SHOW MUST GO ON!’ This event will be the grandest in Navy history. Numerous courageous active-duty members and military families will participate, and I eagerly anticipate sharing this unique occasion with them”.
Restoring Maritime Strength and Command Changes
The president has pledged to restore the navy’s shipbuilding capacity after warnings indicating the navy risks losing its position as the globe's leading maritime force.
America's naval fleet is at its lowest numbers since before World War II, while government-supported Chinese shipyards exceed the productivity of US shipyards.
Secretary of the Navy Phelan, who was confirmed this spring, has identified “urgency” as lacking in warship production , ordered expedited manufacturing for the Columbia- and Virginia-class submarine programs.
The navy celebrations come after months of upheaval in the Defense Department as Secretary Hegseth restructures the military’s top leadership of the army, navy, air force and coast guard.
Recent Policies and Training Proposals
During a contentious address to military leaders last week, Hegseth announced an end of “woke” culture and introduced updated policies such as uniform physical standards in fitness tests.
“The sole objective of the reestablished Department of War is combat readiness, preparing for conflict and ensuring victory, steadfast and unwavering in this endeavor not because we desire war—nobody here does—but due to our dedication to peace,” the secretary stated.
During the gathering, Trump proposed using American urban areas for military exercises for troops and spoke of requiring military might to address what he called the “invasion from within”.
