President Trump’s administration intensifies crackdown on Venezuelan drug boats, sparking legal and ethical questions.
U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that the U.S. military recently targeted another vessel suspected of transporting drugs from Venezuela, an operation that resulted in the deaths of three individuals aboard the boat.
In a post on Truth Social, Mr. Trump stated, “The Strike occurred while these confirmed narcoterrorists from Venezuela were in International Waters transporting illegal narcotics (A DEADLY WEAPON POISONING AMERICANS!) headed to the U.S.”
He further elaborated on the perceived threat, adding, “These extremely violent drug trafficking cartels pose a threat to U.S. National Security, Foreign Policy, and vital U.S. Interests.”
This latest military action, which President Trump indicated took place on Monday, September 15, 2025, follows closely on the heels of another strike just two weeks prior. That earlier operation, also targeting a suspected drug-carrying speedboat from Venezuela, reportedly led to 11 fatalities.
The administration has previously justified these interventions as crucial escalations necessary to curb the influx of illicit drugs into the United States.
However, these actions have drawn significant scrutiny from lawmakers. Numerous senators, including Democrats and some Republicans, have voiced concerns regarding the administration’s rationale, openly questioning the legality of using military force in such a manner. Critics suggest these operations could represent an overreach of executive authority, particularly by blurring the lines between military action and civilian law enforcement.