The U.S. military has conducted airstrikes against boats suspected of drug trafficking, marking a significant shift in how the government addresses drug-related threats. This change comes under the Trump administration, which has redefined the approach to such operations, now involving military forces instead of traditional law enforcement.

In two recent incidents, the U.S. military targeted boats alleged to be transporting illegal drugs to the United States. The first strike occurred two weeks ago, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals, while a second strike killed three men aboard a powerboat. Video footage shared on social media shows one of the boats exploding in a massive fireball.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth commented on the first strike, stating, "We smoked a drug boat and there's 11 narcoterrorists at the bottom of the ocean. And when other people try to do that, they're going to meet the same fate." However, the White House has not provided evidence to substantiate claims that either boat was carrying drugs or heading to the U.S.

Critics have raised concerns about the credibility of these operations. A recent United Nations report on drug-producing countries did not mention Venezuela, the country implicated in the strikes. Instead, Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru were highlighted as major drug producers. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed the UN findings, stating, "I don't care what the UN said. The UN doesn't know what they're talking about."

Skepticism surrounds the capabilities of the boats involved, particularly regarding their ability to travel the 2,000 kilometers to the U.S. The U.S. has not provided evidence linking the occupants of the boats to the Tren de Aragua gang, which is associated with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. President Trump has characterized Maduro as a "very bad actor" and an "indicted drug trafficker."

The U.S. military's response has escalated significantly, with the deployment of nine warships, a nuclear-powered submarine, and 10 F-35 fighter jets to the region. Under new rules of engagement, drug cartels are now treated as military threats rather than criminal organizations.

Experts in military and international law have expressed alarm over this new doctrine. Geoff Corn, a former U.S. Army officer, stated, "This is an extremely dangerous precedent. If you can call any criminal threat to the United States an attack, where do you draw the line?" Scott Anderson, a former U.S. diplomat, noted that this approach could alienate international partners who may view these actions as illegal under international law.

Despite these concerns, the Trump administration appears to be prioritizing a strong military response to drug trafficking. Vice President JD Vance defended the airstrikes, asserting that targeting cartel members is a legitimate use of military force. He responded dismissively to criticisms regarding potential violations of international law, stating, "I don't give a shit what you call it."

As the U.S. continues to navigate its counter-drug operations, the implications of this military approach remain to be seen, particularly in terms of international relations and the rule of law.