U.S. Military Expands Strikes in the Pacific: A New Frontier in the Drug War

The U.S. military has expanded its anti-drug operations into the eastern Pacific, killing five alleged smugglers. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the operations, part of a broader campaign under Trump, raising tensions with Venezuela and Colombia. The strikes have sparked legal and strategic debates.

In a significant development, the U.S. military has extended its counter-narcotics operations into the eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of five alleged drug smugglers. The strikes, announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, mark a notable escalation in the Trump administration's campaign against drug trafficking.

The recent military activities, which targeted two vessels on consecutive days, have stirred controversy and raised questions about the legalities and methodologies involved. Critics argue that the operations have exacerbated tensions with Venezuela and Colombia without offering transparency or evidence of the alleged drug shipments.

Despite the contentious nature of these strikes, President Donald Trump defended the military actions, citing their legality and the potential lives saved. However, legal experts and security analysts continue to question the increasing militarization of anti-narcotics operations, especially in areas traditionally managed by the Coast Guard.

(With inputs from agencies.)