The US military conducted a lethal strike on a drug boat operated by a Venezuelan criminal cartel group known as the Tren de Aragua gang. President Donald Trump confirmed that 11 “narcoterrorists” from the gang were killed when the vessel was bombed in the southern Caribbean. The gang, backed by Maduro, has been labeled a terror group by the US government, prompting Trump’s crackdown on drug trafficking and international criminal organizations.
During a statement from the Oval Office, Trump announced the successful interception of the drug-laden boat, emphasizing the ongoing threat of drug smuggling into the US. Secretary of State Marco Rubio supported Trump’s actions, highlighting the military’s strike against the narco-terrorist group’s vessel departing from Venezuela.
Trump reassured the public that no US military personnel were injured during the operation and warned potential drug smugglers about the consequences of attempting to bring drugs into the country. He shared footage of the boat being destroyed, which Venezuela’s communications minister claimed was possibly altered using artificial intelligence.
Tensions between Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro have escalated, with Maduro expressing discontent over increased US military presence in the Caribbean. Despite the US not recognizing Maduro as the legitimate leader, a substantial reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest on drug trafficking charges.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the reward, accusing Maduro of collaborating with foreign terrorist groups to facilitate drug trafficking and violence into the US. In response, Maduro vowed to defend Venezuela against any potential US invasion, declaring the country’s readiness to resist military pressure.
The situation underscores the growing animosity between the two leaders as they engage in a war of words and power dynamics in the region.