The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has strongly denounced the United States’ military operations targeting boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, which are alleged to be involved in drug trafficking. Türk stated that these strikes are not only illegal under international law but also constitute “extrajudicial killings.” He highlighted that since early September, over 60 individuals have reportedly lost their lives in these US-led attacks.
Expressing strong disapproval, Türk labelled the strikes as “unacceptable” and urged the US administration to cease these operations immediately. He also called for thorough, impartial, and transparent investigations into each incident.
The US, however, has defended its actions. President Donald Trump has asserted the necessity of these strikes to curb the influx of drugs into the United States, maintaining that he possesses the legal authority to continue such military actions on the high seas. Despite acknowledging the complexities of combating drug trafficking, Türk emphasized that the methods employed by the US lack any justification under international law.
“Countering the serious issue of illicit trafficking of drugs across international borders is – as has long been agreed among States – a law-enforcement matter, governed by the careful limits on lethal force set out in international human rights law,” Türk stated. He reiterated that the intentional use of lethal force is permissible only as a last resort against individuals who present an immediate threat to life. Based on the limited information released by US authorities, Türk noted that none of the individuals on the targeted boats appeared to pose such an imminent threat.
He advised the US to instead prioritize law enforcement strategies, such as intercepting vessels, detaining suspects, and pursuing legal prosecution. Most of these strikes have occurred off the coast of South America in the Caribbean, although recent attacks in the Pacific resulted in the deaths of at least 18 people, according to US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The US has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying troops, aircraft, and naval assets, including the USS Gerald R. Ford.
These US actions have drawn criticism from regional governments and international experts, who have questioned their legality. Members of the US Congress from both parties have also expressed concerns and are scrutinizing the president’s authority to order these strikes. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum explicitly stated that her government disagrees with these attacks and has sought clarification from the US ambassador, emphasizing the need to respect all international treaties.
The situation has also led to increased tensions between Washington and the governments of Colombia and Venezuela. The US has imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of failing to curb drug trafficking. Petro has defended his efforts, stating his decades-long fight against drug trafficking. Similarly, Trump has accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of leading a drug-trafficking organization, an accusation Maduro denies. Venezuela’s Attorney General has asserted that Trump’s actions are aimed at overthrowing the Venezuelan government and seizing its natural resources.