News|InfographicHow many times has the US struck Venezuelan vessels?There have been at least six incidents of US strikes on boats in Venezuelan waters since the beginning of September.
On Thu, Oct 16, 2025, the United States military conducted a strike on a vessel alleged to be involved in drug smuggling near Venezuela. The operation resulted in some survivors, although details remain limited.
On Thu, Oct 16, 2025, the United States military conducted a strike on a vessel alleged to be involved in drug smuggling near Venezuela. The operation resulted in some survivors, although details remain limited.
Admiral Alvin Holsey of the Southern Command will retire at the end of the year, as announced by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. The tenure of Admiral Holsey, which typically lasts three years, will conclude prematurely.
The US has executed at least six strikes on vessels in Venezuelan waters since early September, resulting in the deaths of approximately 27 individuals. These operations are part of a broader strategy to combat narcotics trafficking.
September 2: The US military conducted its first known operation, resulting in 11 fatalities. September 15: A strike resulted in three fatalities, targeting a vessel identified with drug trafficking cartels. September 19: Three individuals were killed in a subsequent attack linked to a designated terrorist organization. October 3: The US confirmed four fatalities from an attack on a suspected drug trafficking vessel. October 14: Six individuals were killed in international waters near Venezuela. October 16: The latest operation resulted in survivors, but specific details remain undisclosed.
On Thu, Oct 16, 2025, the United States military conducted a strike on a vessel alleged to be involved in drug smuggling near Venezuela.
There are ongoing discussions regarding the legality of these maritime strikes. Human Rights Watch has expressed concerns, labeling them as "extrajudicial killings." Under international law, the use of military force in international waters is generally prohibited unless justified by self-defense or other legal exceptions.
President Trump has cited self-defense as the rationale for these operations, although evidence of the vessels carrying narcotics has not been publicly disclosed.
The United States has deployed naval and air assets in the region, including near Puerto Rico, as part of its strategy to address drug trafficking concerns. This includes the deployment of amphibious transport docks and surveillance aircraft.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.