The United States is expanding its campaign against drug cartels across Latin America as Colombia joins the U.S.-led Americas Counter-Cartel Coalition. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Colombia has authorised joint military operations targeting terrorist organisations and narco-terror networks.

Hegseth also signalled a more aggressive approach to cartel networks, comparing the planned campaign with tactics used against ISIS and al-Qaeda. The latest move could significantly deepen military and intelligence cooperation between Washington and Bogotá.

U.S. Leads New Anti-Cartel Bloc, as Hegseth Vows 'ISIS-Style' Ops Against Cartels

The United States has designated Mexico’s Juarez Cartel and Los Alegres group as foreign terrorist organizations, marking a major escalation in Washington’s fight against drug cartels. The US State Department said the groups were involved in attacks affecting American citizens and interests, including a 2019 attack that killed nine members of the Mormon community in Mexico.

US designates Mexican cartels as terror groups in major drug war escalation

Srinagar: Operating from Pakistan and shielded by a complex network of criminal and extremist contacts, gangster Shahzad Bhatti has emerged as a key figure in several investigations linked to terror plots, organised crime, and online radicalisation of youth in India.&nbsp;Director General of Police (DGP) Jammu and Kashmir, Nalin Prabhat, issued a direct warning to the ISIS-linked operative Shahzad Bhatti, accusing him of masterminding cross-border narco-terror operations aimed at reviving terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India.&nbsp;“We will hunt and hound you wherever you are,” the DGP said, specifically naming Shehzad Bhatti during the address.&nbsp;According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, Bhatti has emerged as one of the key kingpins behind active narco-terror activities in the Union Territory. Indian security agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA), have accused Bhatti of running an international narcotics smuggling and arms trafficking network linked to Pakistan’s ISI, with operational links extending to Pakistan and Dubai.&nbsp;“We are focusing on combating Pakistan-sponsored narco-terrorism, J&amp;K police have paid equal attention to the menace of narco-terrorism. A warning to the Pakistani based Shahzad Bhatti, who is ISI’s associate and partner and is pumping narcotics in India: we will hunt and hound you and your associates and decimate your evil infrastructure,” said Nalin Prabhat, DGP J&amp;K Police.&nbsp;&nbsp;Security agencies claim Bhatti functions as more than just a gangster. Investigators allege he acts as a conduit between criminal syndicates and extremist operatives, using social media platforms and encrypted communication channels to expand his reach across multiple Indian states.&nbsp;According to Delhi Police Special Cell officials, operatives allegedly connected to Bhatti were recently planning attacks in the Delhi-NCR region. Investigators say the plans included possible grenade attacks, targeted killings, and illegal arms movement. The allegations are currently under investigation.&nbsp;Authorities have also linked Bhatti to a relatively new outfit called ‘Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan (TTH)’. Agencies claim he played a role in circulating propaganda material and coordinating activities linked to the group, although officials have not publicly disclosed the full extent of evidence gathered so far.&nbsp;What has particularly concerned investigators is the use of social media as a recruitment tool. Officials say Bhatti and his associates used platforms such as Instagram and WhatsApp to identify, contact, and influence young individuals in different parts of India. Arrests made in Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana are reportedly tied to the networks investigators believe were operating under his guidance.&nbsp;Security officials further allege that the network stretched into arms smuggling and narco-terror financing, with links extending to criminal syndicates operating out of Pakistan and Dubai. Agencies are now examining whether these operations formed part of a larger cross-border ecosystem combining organised crime with extremist activities.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India’s security agencies claim that Shahzad Bhatti functions as more than just a gangster. Investigators allege he acts as a conduit between criminal syndicates and extremist operatives, and uses social media and encrypted communication platforms to expand his reach across India.

Srinagar: Operating from Pakistan and shielded by a complex network of criminal and extremist contacts, gangster Shahzad Bhatti has emerged as a key figure in several investigations linked to terror plots, organised crime, and online radicalisation of youth in India. Director General of Police (DGP) Jammu and Kashmir, Nalin Prabhat, issued a direct warning to the ISIS-linked operative Shahzad Bhatti, accusing him of masterminding cross-border narco-terror operations aimed at reviving terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India. “We will hunt and hound you wherever you are,” the DGP said, specifically naming Shehzad Bhatti during the address. According to Jammu and Kashmir Police, Bhatti has emerged as one of the key kingpins behind active narco-terror activities in the Union Territory. Indian security agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA), have accused Bhatti of running an international narcotics smuggling and arms trafficking network linked to Pakistan’s ISI, with operational links extending to Pakistan and Dubai. “We are focusing on combating Pakistan-sponsored narco-terrorism, J&K police have paid equal attention to the menace of narco-terrorism. A warning to the Pakistani based Shahzad Bhatti, who is ISI’s associate and partner and is pumping narcotics in India: we will hunt and hound you and your associates and decimate your evil infrastructure,” said Nalin Prabhat, DGP J&K Police. Security agencies claim Bhatti functions as more than just a gangster. Investigators allege he acts as a conduit between criminal syndicates and extremist operatives, using social media platforms and encrypted communication channels to expand his reach across multiple Indian states. According to Delhi Police Special Cell officials, operatives allegedly connected to Bhatti were recently planning attacks in the Delhi-NCR region. Investigators say the plans included possible grenade attacks, targeted killings, and illegal arms movement. The allegations are currently under investigation. Authorities have also linked Bhatti to a relatively new outfit called ‘Tehreek-e-Taliban Hindustan (TTH)’. Agencies claim he played a role in circulating propaganda material and coordinating activities linked to the group, although officials have not publicly disclosed the full extent of evidence gathered so far. What has particularly concerned investigators is the use of social media as a recruitment tool. Officials say Bhatti and his associates used platforms such as Instagram and WhatsApp to identify, contact, and influence young individuals in different parts of India. Arrests made in Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana are reportedly tied to the networks investigators believe were operating under his guidance. Security officials further allege that the network stretched into arms smuggling and narco-terror financing, with links extending to criminal syndicates operating out of Pakistan and Dubai. Agencies are now examining whether these operations formed part of a larger cross-border ecosystem combining organised crime with extremist activities.

India’s security agencies claim that Shahzad Bhatti functions as more than just a gangster. Investigators allege he acts as a conduit between criminal syndicates and extremist operatives, and uses social media and encrypted communication platforms to expand his reach across India.

Pakistan-based Shahzad Bhatti emerges as key figure in India’s anti-terror investigations

In a major crackdown on narco-terror networks operating in Jammu and Kashmir, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir attached immovable property belonging to a Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK)-based operative of the banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).The action was taken in connection with FIR No. 03/2023 of Police Station ANTF, a case initially registered by the Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and later transferred to SIA Kashmir for specialised investigation after the probe revealed wider links involving terror financing and cross-border narco-terror operations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-chandranath-rath-air-force-veteran-suvendu-adhikari-s-most-trusted-aide-killed-in-brazen-west-bengal-shooting-1778123080382">Who was Chandranath Rath? Suvendu Adhikari's PA killed in brazen WB shooting</a>According to officials, investigations uncovered the involvement of accused Zameer Ahmad Lone, son of Ahmad Gul Lone and a resident of Mandiyan Keran in Kupwara, who is presently operating from PoJK. Authorities said the accused was actively associated with LeT and allegedly engaged in narco-terror activities aimed at disturbing peace and security in the Union Territory.Officials further stated that Lone had earlier been declared a proclaimed offender by a competent court for evading arrest and continuing anti-national activities from across the border.Following an application filed by SIA Kashmir, the competent court ordered the attachment of the absconding accused’s property after examining the evidence presented during the investigation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suvendu-adhikari-pa-s-killing-pre-planned-eyewitness-reveals-shocking-details-of-shooting-in-west-bengal-s-madhyamgram-mamata-banerjee-tmc-vs-bjp-1778119401254">Suvendu Adhikari PA's killing 'pre-planned'? Eyewitness reveals shocking details</a>Acting on the court’s directions, a specialised SIA team attached immovable property measuring 1 Kanal and 14.37 Marlas under Khasra No. 113 at Mandiyan Keran, Kupwara. The proceedings were carried out in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and local revenue officials in accordance with legal procedures.Officials said SIA Kashmir had earlier filed a detailed chargesheet before the competent court after gathering substantial evidence related to narco-smuggling, terror financing and cross-border terror links.The agency described the action as part of its continued efforts to dismantle the ecosystem supporting terrorism, particularly networks involved in terror funding and narcotics trafficking operating from across the border.“SIA Kashmir remains committed to identifying, investigating and taking stringent legal action against individuals and entities involved in activities prejudicial to the sovereignty, integrity and security of the nation,” officials said.The development also comes amid intensified efforts under the national campaign “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,” with Jammu and Kashmir authorities focusing on curbing drug abuse and dismantling narcotics networks that are allegedly being used to fund terrorism.

The action was taken in connection with a case initially registered by the Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and later transferred to SIA Kashmir for specialised investigation after the probe revealed wider links involving terror financing and cross-border narco-terror operations.

In a major crackdown on narco-terror networks operating in Jammu and Kashmir, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir attached immovable property belonging to a Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK)-based operative of the banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The action was taken in connection with FIR No. 03/2023 of Police Station ANTF, a case initially registered by the Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and later transferred to SIA Kashmir for specialised investigation after the probe revealed wider links involving terror financing and cross-border narco-terror operations. Also read | Who was Chandranath Rath? Suvendu Adhikari's PA killed in brazen WB shooting According to officials, investigations uncovered the involvement of accused Zameer Ahmad Lone, son of Ahmad Gul Lone and a resident of Mandiyan Keran in Kupwara, who is presently operating from PoJK. Authorities said the accused was actively associated with LeT and allegedly engaged in narco-terror activities aimed at disturbing peace and security in the Union Territory. Officials further stated that Lone had earlier been declared a proclaimed offender by a competent court for evading arrest and continuing anti-national activities from across the border. Following an application filed by SIA Kashmir, the competent court ordered the attachment of the absconding accused’s property after examining the evidence presented during the investigation. Also read | Suvendu Adhikari PA's killing 'pre-planned'? Eyewitness reveals shocking details Acting on the court’s directions, a specialised SIA team attached immovable property measuring 1 Kanal and 14.37 Marlas under Khasra No. 113 at Mandiyan Keran, Kupwara. The proceedings were carried out in the presence of an Executive Magistrate and local revenue officials in accordance with legal procedures. Officials said SIA Kashmir had earlier filed a detailed chargesheet before the competent court after gathering substantial evidence related to narco-smuggling, terror financing and cross-border terror links. The agency described the action as part of its continued efforts to dismantle the ecosystem supporting terrorism, particularly networks involved in terror funding and narcotics trafficking operating from across the border. “SIA Kashmir remains committed to identifying, investigating and taking stringent legal action against individuals and entities involved in activities prejudicial to the sovereignty, integrity and security of the nation,” officials said. The development also comes amid intensified efforts under the national campaign “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan,” with Jammu and Kashmir authorities focusing on curbing drug abuse and dismantling narcotics networks that are allegedly being used to fund terrorism.

The action was taken in connection with a case initially registered by the Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and later transferred to SIA Kashmir for specialised investigation after the probe revealed wider links involving terror financing and cross-border narco-terror operations.

SIA Kashmir attaches property of PoJK-based LeT operative in major narco-terror case

The United States has carried out a strike on a vessel in the Caribbean, killing four people, as part of an ongoing campaign against what the Trump administration calls “narco-terrorists.”

US Southern Command said the vessel was operating along known drug trafficking routes and was linked to designated terrorist organisations. The military described the operation as a “lethal kinetic strike.”

The strike is part of a wider US campaign launched in 2025 targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels across the Caribbean and Pacific. Officials say the operations are aimed at disrupting cartel networks, though critics argue there is limited public evidence to support the claims.

According to reports, the latest attack adds to a growing toll from similar strikes, with over 160 people killed since the campaign began.

The operations mark a significant escalation in Washington’s approach, framing drug cartels as part of an “armed conflict” and justifying military action beyond US borders.

US Strike on Caribbean Vessel Kills Four as Trump Targets “Narco-Terrorists” | WION

Latin American nations are reportedly bracing for future impact as the US bulldozes its way through a counter-cartel alliance, for which the Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth led a conference recently. What exactly is the counter cartel alliance, and what is its scope of operation? Given the history of failed ‘wars on drug’, will it be different this time? Here is what you should know.<h2>What is Pete Hegseth-led Counter Cartel Coalition?</h2>The Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (ACCC) is a US-initiated and US-led ‘alliance’ for combating drug cartels and transnational crime groups across the Western Hemisphere. Spearheaded by Hegseth, the alliance is a pivot from traditional law enforcement to aggressive military action against drug cartels in the Americas, treating them as "narco-terrorists" similar to Islamic State or al-Qaeda terror groups.Formally launched at the first Americas Counter Cartel Conference on March 5 at US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) headquarters in Doral, Florida, the initiative is the latest move in President Donald Trump's long-standing promises to dismantle cartels.<h2>How is the new US-led anti-cartel initiative different?</h2>The new initiative is an escalation from previous operations like US military strikes on alleged drug-carrying vessels in international waters, and joint actions in countries like Ecuador and Venezuela.During his remarks at the conference, Hegseth positioned the counter cartel operation as a revival of the Monroe Doctrine. He described Western Hemisphere as "America's neighbourhood" that must be protected from external threats, including Chinese influence and drug flows poisoning American communities.The Florida event brought together defence ministers and representatives from over a dozen Latin American and Caribbean nations. They were mainly from conservative, pro-Trump governments. Hegseth's keynote speech set the tone for what to expect from the coalition: A stress on American "hard power" and lethal force as opposed to criminal justice approaches. He warned bluntly that if the allies did not step up, the US would act unilaterally.Speakers like Stephen Miller compared cartels to terrorist groups and called for ruthless treatment.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-southcom-ecuador-joint-operation-narco-terror-1772598897743">US SOUTHCOM conducts joint land operation with Ecuador against narco-terror groups</a><h2>Joint defence operations against drug cartels in the offing?</h2>A joint declaration of the conference, signed by 18 countries, made a commitment to intelligence sharing, joint military operations, border security enhancements, and offensive actions against cartels.&nbsp;It talked about building "the most effective fighting force" to dismantle the drug networks. President Trump signed a proclamation endorsing the coalition on March 7.The coalition is a step forward from earlier US moves like the Operation Southern Spear, which saw its military strike on alleged narco boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, killing dozens of people.<h2>Who is in, who is out of counter-cartel coalition will determine how it will pan out</h2>Hegseth firmed up the coalition after visits to countries like the Dominican Republic, making it almost a personal crusade and signature reform for him. &nbsp;But a look at who is in, and who is outside the coalition could be an indication of the divisions in the region on how to tackle narcos.The nearly 18 signatories of the joint declaration are mostly from right-wing governments that admire and support Trump's "iron fist" approach to organised crime and drug cartels. They include Argentina, Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Honduras, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago. Leaders like El Salvador's Nayib Bukele are vocal supporters, drawing parallels to their own anti-gang crackdowns at home.But notable exclusions are mostly from left-leaning or adversarial governments. Most of them were reportedly deliberately left out, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Nicaragua.&nbsp;This brings up a key question as these excluded countries are major cartel strongholds: Will the US-led coalition conduct military operations in their countries, &nbsp;threatening their sovereignty? A look at the tactics the coalition could use is an indication of future tensions.<h2>The counter cartel ops could include military attacks on cartel assets, international waters</h2>The ACCC's aim is to “crush the cartels, stop the poison, and keep America safe”. Its joint military operations could include US-led strikes on cartel assets like boats, labs and leaders. The operations could take place in international waters too. Much of this has already been done by the US in the past six months.Intelligence and resource sharing is another major aspect. The coalition will engage in enhanced coordination via mechanisms like Joint Task Force Southern Spear, led by units such as the II Marine Expeditionary Force.<h2>Border security and ‘protecting christian civilizations’</h2>The coalition is seeking to make border protection an issue of national security. There were calls made to &nbsp;"defend Christian civilization" against transnational threats like narco-terrorism.There is also talk about countering Chinese and Iranian influence in the region, as part of a "Donroe Doctrine" mentioned by Trump.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opium-to-precursor-chemicals-money-laundering-weapons-how-china-is-involved-in-mexico-drug-cartels-over-a-century-el-mencho-cjng-1771998850039">China is involved in Mexico drug trade for over a century: From opium to precursor chemicals to money laundering and cartel weapons</a><h2>Necessary escalation or agression?</h2>According to multiple reports, there's consternation and confusion in several national capitals. The supporters of the initiative, however, point to tens of thousands killed annually by cartels, both as a result of overdose from drugs like fentanyl and violence. They see that previous policies failed, even as cartels have developed their own armies, in some cases better-armed and trained than the national militaries.For critics, &nbsp;the aggressive posturing is bound to worsen violence and tensions, and is an echo of the failed US interventions in Latin American drug trade in the 1980s and 1990s.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-six-killed-in-latest-strike-on-alleged-drug-boats-1773025171212/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-six-killed-in-latest-strike-on-alleged-drug-boats-1773025171212/embed</a><h2>Will the counter drug cartel ops drag Latin America into needless wars?</h2>From a survey of recent analyst opinions, that appears to be the case. ACCC could drag participating Latin American countries into escalated conflicts. Past US-backed anti-drug campaigns fueled violence, while failing to eradicate the problem. Hegseth's violent rhetoric explicitly called for ‘offense’ and unilateral US action. This might pressure the allies into hosting US troops or joining strikes, which in turn will make them targets of cartel counterattacks. The &nbsp;US operations in Ecuador already was a joint military action, &nbsp;setting a template for broader interventions.Nations like Mexico - which host most of the violent of cartels - might resist external action, leading to cross-border tensions or proxy conflicts.<h2>Millions displaced, tens of thousands killed: How the past US-led drug wars panned out</h2>The 1980s Contra wars or Plan Colombia did not succeed fully. These mostly military initiatives displaced millions and intensified violence. Most failed to fully dismantle cartels. Since 1971, &nbsp;the so-called US War on Drugs cost more than $1 trillion, with Latin America bearing most of the brunt. Even after that failed war, Mexico alone saw more than 400,000 deaths from cartel violence since 2006.The military focus of the counter cartel coaliton risks repeating the same mistakes. History shows that cartels usually adapt to the situation by arming up or shifting operations. Often, the attacks on cartels lead to civil unrest or insurgencies in fragile states like Honduras or Bolivia.<h2>Unilateral threats of counter cartel coalition risk backlash&nbsp;</h2>If the US strikes civilian areas or provokes retaliations like cartel attacks on allied governments, it could lead to an all-out, asymmetrical war. Such a war will be low-burning and prolonged, dragging smaller nations in the region and draining their resources. This is a war they can't afford. We already have examples of how American involvement in Afghanistan or Iraq spiralled into decades-long quagmires. Hegseth and Trump allies are framing the coalition as an urgent national security issue, citing more than 100,000 annual deaths due to fentanyl and other drugs, linked to cartels.If successful, the war could help bring about regional stability. Perhaps Bukele's El Salvador crackdown could be a model, in which heavy-handed tactics reduced homicide rates by 70 per cent.<h2>The real issue is US drug abuse</h2>Analysts noted that no drug war will be successful unless the demand side issues are resolved, namely the drug addiction in American cities and inner cities. If not, the counter cartel coalition could end up only as a costly, cosmetic operation without curing the underlying American drug problem. The militarised approach to counter narcotics operations could once again entangle Latin American nations into conflicts they did not sign up for.

The US-led Americas Counter Cartel Coalition seeks to combat drug cartels through joint military action across Latin America. This is already raising fears of a new regional drug war that could escalate tensions. Violence, displacements and threats to sovereignty could follow

Latin American nations are reportedly bracing for future impact as the US bulldozes its way through a counter-cartel alliance, for which the Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth led a conference recently. What exactly is the counter cartel alliance, and what is its scope of operation? Given the history of failed ‘wars on drug’, will it be different this time? Here is what you should know. What is Pete Hegseth-led Counter Cartel Coalition? The Americas Counter Cartel Coalition (ACCC) is a US-initiated and US-led ‘alliance’ for combating drug cartels and transnational crime groups across the Western Hemisphere. Spearheaded by Hegseth, the alliance is a pivot from traditional law enforcement to aggressive military action against drug cartels in the Americas, treating them as "narco-terrorists" similar to Islamic State or al-Qaeda terror groups. Formally launched at the first Americas Counter Cartel Conference on March 5 at US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) headquarters in Doral, Florida, the initiative is the latest move in President Donald Trump's long-standing promises to dismantle cartels. How is the new US-led anti-cartel initiative different? The new initiative is an escalation from previous operations like US military strikes on alleged drug-carrying vessels in international waters, and joint actions in countries like Ecuador and Venezuela. During his remarks at the conference, Hegseth positioned the counter cartel operation as a revival of the Monroe Doctrine. He described Western Hemisphere as "America's neighbourhood" that must be protected from external threats, including Chinese influence and drug flows poisoning American communities. The Florida event brought together defence ministers and representatives from over a dozen Latin American and Caribbean nations. They were mainly from conservative, pro-Trump governments. Hegseth's keynote speech set the tone for what to expect from the coalition: A stress on American "hard power" and lethal force as opposed to criminal justice approaches. He warned bluntly that if the allies did not step up, the US would act unilaterally. Speakers like Stephen Miller compared cartels to terrorist groups and called for ruthless treatment. Also read: US SOUTHCOM conducts joint land operation with Ecuador against narco-terror groups Joint defence operations against drug cartels in the offing? A joint declaration of the conference, signed by 18 countries, made a commitment to intelligence sharing, joint military operations, border security enhancements, and offensive actions against cartels. It talked about building "the most effective fighting force" to dismantle the drug networks. President Trump signed a proclamation endorsing the coalition on March 7. The coalition is a step forward from earlier US moves like the Operation Southern Spear, which saw its military strike on alleged narco boats in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, killing dozens of people. Who is in, who is out of counter-cartel coalition will determine how it will pan out Hegseth firmed up the coalition after visits to countries like the Dominican Republic, making it almost a personal crusade and signature reform for him. But a look at who is in, and who is outside the coalition could be an indication of the divisions in the region on how to tackle narcos. The nearly 18 signatories of the joint declaration are mostly from right-wing governments that admire and support Trump's "iron fist" approach to organised crime and drug cartels. They include Argentina, Bahamas, Belize, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Honduras, Peru and Trinidad and Tobago. Leaders like El Salvador's Nayib Bukele are vocal supporters, drawing parallels to their own anti-gang crackdowns at home. But notable exclusions are mostly from left-leaning or adversarial governments. Most of them were reportedly deliberately left out, including Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Nicaragua. This brings up a key question as these excluded countries are major cartel strongholds: Will the US-led coalition conduct military operations in their countries, threatening their sovereignty? A look at the tactics the coalition could use is an indication of future tensions. The counter cartel ops could include military attacks on cartel assets, international waters The ACCC's aim is to “crush the cartels, stop the poison, and keep America safe”. Its joint military operations could include US-led strikes on cartel assets like boats, labs and leaders. The operations could take place in international waters too. Much of this has already been done by the US in the past six months. Intelligence and resource sharing is another major aspect. The coalition will engage in enhanced coordination via mechanisms like Joint Task Force Southern Spear, led by units such as the II Marine Expeditionary Force. Border security and ‘protecting christian civilizations’ The coalition is seeking to make border protection an issue of national security. There were calls made to "defend Christian civilization" against transnational threats like narco-terrorism. There is also talk about countering Chinese and Iranian influence in the region, as part of a "Donroe Doctrine" mentioned by Trump. Also read: China is involved in Mexico drug trade for over a century: From opium to precursor chemicals to money laundering and cartel weapons Necessary escalation or agression? According to multiple reports, there's consternation and confusion in several national capitals. The supporters of the initiative, however, point to tens of thousands killed annually by cartels, both as a result of overdose from drugs like fentanyl and violence. They see that previous policies failed, even as cartels have developed their own armies, in some cases better-armed and trained than the national militaries. For critics, the aggressive posturing is bound to worsen violence and tensions, and is an echo of the failed US interventions in Latin American drug trade in the 1980s and 1990s. https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-six-killed-in-latest-strike-on-alleged-drug-boats-1773025171212/embed Will the counter drug cartel ops drag Latin America into needless wars? From a survey of recent analyst opinions, that appears to be the case. ACCC could drag participating Latin American countries into escalated conflicts. Past US-backed anti-drug campaigns fueled violence, while failing to eradicate the problem. Hegseth's violent rhetoric explicitly called for ‘offense’ and unilateral US action. This might pressure the allies into hosting US troops or joining strikes, which in turn will make them targets of cartel counterattacks. The US operations in Ecuador already was a joint military action, setting a template for broader interventions. Nations like Mexico - which host most of the violent of cartels - might resist external action, leading to cross-border tensions or proxy conflicts. Millions displaced, tens of thousands killed: How the past US-led drug wars panned out The 1980s Contra wars or Plan Colombia did not succeed fully. These mostly military initiatives displaced millions and intensified violence. Most failed to fully dismantle cartels. Since 1971, the so-called US War on Drugs cost more than $1 trillion, with Latin America bearing most of the brunt. Even after that failed war, Mexico alone saw more than 400,000 deaths from cartel violence since 2006. The military focus of the counter cartel coaliton risks repeating the same mistakes. History shows that cartels usually adapt to the situation by arming up or shifting operations. Often, the attacks on cartels lead to civil unrest or insurgencies in fragile states like Honduras or Bolivia. Unilateral threats of counter cartel coalition risk backlash If the US strikes civilian areas or provokes retaliations like cartel attacks on allied governments, it could lead to an all-out, asymmetrical war. Such a war will be low-burning and prolonged, dragging smaller nations in the region and draining their resources. This is a war they can't afford. We already have examples of how American involvement in Afghanistan or Iraq spiralled into decades-long quagmires. Hegseth and Trump allies are framing the coalition as an urgent national security issue, citing more than 100,000 annual deaths due to fentanyl and other drugs, linked to cartels. If successful, the war could help bring about regional stability. Perhaps Bukele's El Salvador crackdown could be a model, in which heavy-handed tactics reduced homicide rates by 70 per cent. The real issue is US drug abuse Analysts noted that no drug war will be successful unless the demand side issues are resolved, namely the drug addiction in American cities and inner cities. If not, the counter cartel coalition could end up only as a costly, cosmetic operation without curing the underlying American drug problem. The militarised approach to counter narcotics operations could once again entangle Latin American nations into conflicts they did not sign up for.

The US-led Americas Counter Cartel Coalition seeks to combat drug cartels through joint military action across Latin America. This is already raising fears of a new regional drug war that could escalate tensions. Violence, displacements and threats to sovereignty could follow

Americas Counter Cartel Coalition: Will the US drag Latin America into another needless ‘war on drugs’?

Narco-terrorism is the use of drug money to fund political violence. Trump says Nicolás Maduro for leading a narco-terrorism conspiracy, alleging he runs the 'Cartel of the Suns'. Donald Trump accused Maduro of using cocaine as a weapon to attack the US. 

Narco-terrorism is the use of drug money to fund political violence. Trump says Nicolás Maduro for leading a narco-terrorism conspiracy, alleging he runs the 'Cartel of the Suns.' Donald Trump accused Maduro of using cocaine as a weapon to attack the US.&nbsp;

What is narco-terrorism, and why did Trump say Nicolás Maduro is leading it?

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Dec 2) signalled that his administration could start its campaign of lethal strikes against alleged drug traffickers "on land" very soon. This shift would mark a major escalation of US counter-narcotics operations across Latin America. It comes as the same day Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth insisted that the US had "only just begun" targeting alleged drug-trafficking boats.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-delhi-visit-putin-vows-deeper-partnership-with-india-says-he-wants-ties-at-a-qualitatively-new-level-1764726149599">Ahead of Delhi visit, Putin vows deeper partnership with India, says he wants ties at a 'qualitatively new level'</a><h2>When will the US start land strikes in Latin America?</h2>When asked about recent US strikes on suspected drug boats, Trump told reporters during a Cabinet meeting that the next phase is already in motion. "We're going to start doing those strikes on land, too," he said. However, he did not give a timeline or specify potential targets, but made clear the scope would be broad. "You know, the land is much easier ... And we know the routes they take. We know everything about them. We know where they live. We know where the bad ones live. And we're going to start that very soon, too."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-lashes-out-at-washington-s-slave-s-peace-as-trump-meets-security-chiefs-on-venezuela-1764638490172">Maduro lashes out at Washington’s 'slave’s peace' as Trump meets security chiefs on Venezuela</a>Trump insisted that Venezuela was not necessarily the only country that would be targeted by these land strikes. Any country where illicit drugs are produced or trafficked is "subject to attack," he said, singling out Colombia.

Trump said the US is preparing to launch land strikes against alleged drug traffickers across Latin America, calling it the next phase of his campaign after boat attacks. Here's what he said.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Dec 2) signalled that his administration could start its campaign of lethal strikes against alleged drug traffickers "on land" very soon. This shift would mark a major escalation of US counter-narcotics operations across Latin America. It comes as the same day Trump's Secretary of War Pete Hegseth insisted that the US had "only just begun" targeting alleged drug-trafficking boats. Also read | Ahead of Delhi visit, Putin vows deeper partnership with India, says he wants ties at a 'qualitatively new level' When will the US start land strikes in Latin America? When asked about recent US strikes on suspected drug boats, Trump told reporters during a Cabinet meeting that the next phase is already in motion. "We're going to start doing those strikes on land, too," he said. However, he did not give a timeline or specify potential targets, but made clear the scope would be broad. "You know, the land is much easier ... And we know the routes they take. We know everything about them. We know where they live. We know where the bad ones live. And we're going to start that very soon, too." Also read | Maduro lashes out at Washington’s 'slave’s peace' as Trump meets security chiefs on Venezuela Trump insisted that Venezuela was not necessarily the only country that would be targeted by these land strikes. Any country where illicit drugs are produced or trafficked is "subject to attack," he said, singling out Colombia.

Trump said the US is preparing to launch land strikes against alleged drug traffickers across Latin America, calling it the next phase of his campaign after boat attacks. Here's what he said.

Trump says US will launch lethal land strikes in Latin America 'very soon,' Hegseth vows boat strikes 'only just begun'

US President Donald Trump’s administration has officially declared Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO), effective Monday (Nov 24), as the US government ramps up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Washington claims that the group, which it says is tied directly to Maduro and other senior officials, works with known outfits like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel to fuel violence and drug trafficking across the region. But is Cartel de los Soles even a ‘cartel’?In a statement, the US Department of State said, “Based in Venezuela, the Cartel de los Soles is headed by Nicolás Maduro and other high-ranking individuals of the illegitimate Maduro regime who have corrupted Venezuela’s military, intelligence, legislature, and judiciary. Neither Maduro nor his cronies represent Venezuela’s legitimate government. Cartel de los Soles by and with other designated FTOs including Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel are responsible for terrorist violence throughout our hemisphere as well as for trafficking drugs into the United States and Europe.”<h2>What is Cartel de los Soles?</h2>The entity Cartel de los Soles is not actually a cartel per se. The term is rather used to describe military officers and other officials involved in corruption and other illegal activities in the country.The term Cartel de los Soles, or Cartel of the Suns, started being used in Venezuela in the 1990s to refer to senior military officials who became rich from drug-running. As the corruption spread in the country under late President Hugo Chavez and then under Maduro, the term was associated with police and government officials, and also activities like illegal mining and fuel trafficking. The “suns” in the name refer to the epaulettes attached to the uniforms of high-ranking officers in the military.The term was then used to describe a Maduro-led drug-trafficking organisation in 2020, when the US Justice Department announced the indictment of the Venezuelan president and his inner circle over charges including narcoterrorism.“It is not a group,” said Adam Isaacson, director for defence oversight at the Washington Office on Latin America organisation. “It’s not like a group that people would ever identify themselves as members. They don’t have regular meetings. They don’t have a hierarchy.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-launch-new-phase-of-venezuela-operation-several-airlines-cancel-flights-after-us-warning-1763886961576">Trump to launch new phase of Venezuela operation? Several airlines cancel flights after US warning</a><h2>US to launch operations in Venezuela?</h2>This comes amid reports that the US is set to launch a new phase of operations related to Venezuela in the coming days as US President Donald Trump’s administration escalates pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government. Earlier, the two leaders said that they were ready to talk with each other “face to face”. However, the US president said that he will not “rule out” the presence of the US military in the archipelago.The Trump administration has accused Maduro of leading a “terrorist” drug cartel – an accusation he denies. Despite the mounting criticism over the mounting civilian toll in the US strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, Washington has maintained that it is defending itself against “narco-terrorists”.US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said last week that the designation of Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organisation will provide a “whole bunch of new options to the United States” for dealing with Maduro, without providing further details.“So nothing is off the table, but nothing’s automatically on the table,” he said.Earlier this month, the US Navy positioned its largest aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford, in the Caribbean with its strike group. At least seven other warships, a nuclear submarine and F-35 aircraft have also been stationed.

This comes amid reports that the US is set to launch a new phase of operations related to Venezuela in the coming days as US President Donald Trump’s administration escalates pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government.

US President Donald Trump’s administration has officially declared Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO), effective Monday (Nov 24), as the US government ramps up pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Washington claims that the group, which it says is tied directly to Maduro and other senior officials, works with known outfits like Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel to fuel violence and drug trafficking across the region. But is Cartel de los Soles even a ‘cartel’? In a statement, the US Department of State said, “Based in Venezuela, the Cartel de los Soles is headed by Nicolás Maduro and other high-ranking individuals of the illegitimate Maduro regime who have corrupted Venezuela’s military, intelligence, legislature, and judiciary. Neither Maduro nor his cronies represent Venezuela’s legitimate government. Cartel de los Soles by and with other designated FTOs including Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel are responsible for terrorist violence throughout our hemisphere as well as for trafficking drugs into the United States and Europe.” What is Cartel de los Soles? The entity Cartel de los Soles is not actually a cartel per se. The term is rather used to describe military officers and other officials involved in corruption and other illegal activities in the country. The term Cartel de los Soles, or Cartel of the Suns, started being used in Venezuela in the 1990s to refer to senior military officials who became rich from drug-running. As the corruption spread in the country under late President Hugo Chavez and then under Maduro, the term was associated with police and government officials, and also activities like illegal mining and fuel trafficking. The “suns” in the name refer to the epaulettes attached to the uniforms of high-ranking officers in the military. The term was then used to describe a Maduro-led drug-trafficking organisation in 2020, when the US Justice Department announced the indictment of the Venezuelan president and his inner circle over charges including narcoterrorism. “It is not a group,” said Adam Isaacson, director for defence oversight at the Washington Office on Latin America organisation. “It’s not like a group that people would ever identify themselves as members. They don’t have regular meetings. They don’t have a hierarchy.” Also read | Trump to launch new phase of Venezuela operation? Several airlines cancel flights after US warning US to launch operations in Venezuela? This comes amid reports that the US is set to launch a new phase of operations related to Venezuela in the coming days as US President Donald Trump’s administration escalates pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government. Earlier, the two leaders said that they were ready to talk with each other “face to face”. However, the US president said that he will not “rule out” the presence of the US military in the archipelago. The Trump administration has accused Maduro of leading a “terrorist” drug cartel – an accusation he denies. Despite the mounting criticism over the mounting civilian toll in the US strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, Washington has maintained that it is defending itself against “narco-terrorists”. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said last week that the designation of Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organisation will provide a “whole bunch of new options to the United States” for dealing with Maduro, without providing further details. “So nothing is off the table, but nothing’s automatically on the table,” he said. Earlier this month, the US Navy positioned its largest aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford, in the Caribbean with its strike group. At least seven other warships, a nuclear submarine and F-35 aircraft have also been stationed.

This comes amid reports that the US is set to launch a new phase of operations related to Venezuela in the coming days as US President Donald Trump’s administration escalates pressure on President Nicolas Maduro’s government.

US formally lists Venezuelan Cartel de los Soles as ‘foreign terrorist organisation’ – Is it even a ‘cartel’?

The U.S. has launched a major military operation targeting what officials describe as “narco-terrorist” networks responsible for cross-border violence, trafficking, and armed incursions. The campaign marks a dramatic escalation in America’s security strategy, raising questions about regional stability, international law, and how far Washington is prepared to go. Here’s the full breakdown of the operation and its stakes.


U.S. Unveils Military Operation Against 'Narco-Terrorists' 

&nbsp;US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Thursday (Nov 13) announced a new operation against “narco-terrorists” in the Western Hemisphere. The military campaign, dubbed “Southern Spear”, will be led by a joint task force and is aimed at securing “our homeland from the drugs that are killing our people,” he said, without giving further details about the operation. This comes after Pentagon officials said on Thursday (Nov 13) that the United States conducted its 20th strike on an alleged drug trafficking boat. At least four people were killed in the strike, which took place on Monday (Nov 10).“President Trump ordered action — and the Department of War is delivering,” Hegseth wrote in a post on X. “Today, I’m announcing Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR.”“Led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and @SOUTHCOM, this mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people. The Western Hemisphere is America’s neighborhood – and we will protect it,” he said.The announcement comes amid speculations that the US may be preparing to strike targets in Venezuela, calling its President Nicolas Maduro illegitimate and the head of a narco-trafficking network.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened attacks on the country following several strikes against boats allegedly smuggling drugs in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. Earlier this week, the US expanded its military presence in the region by positioning its aircraft carrier strike group as part of its campaign against drug cartels, the Navy’s Fourth Fleet announced Tuesday (Nov 11).<h2>Rubio pushes back EU criticism</h2>While the Pentagon has stated that the operations are being conducted to disrupt drug-trafficking networks, the strikes have drawn criticism from governments in the region for their mounting civilian toll and lack of transparency. At least 79 people have been killed as a result of the strikes so far.Defending the US strikes against alleged drug vessels, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday (Nov 12) said that the European Union don’t get to determine how the United States defends its national security.“I don’t think that the European Union gets to determine what international law is. They certainly don’t get to determine is how the United States defends its national security. The United States is under attack from organized criminal narco-terrorists in our hemisphere, and the president is responding in the defense of our country,” Rubio told reporters following a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers in Canada.Watch | US Shutdown Ends, Hunger Crisis Exposes Washington's Forgotten America <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shutdown-ends-hunger-crisis-exposes-washington-s-forgotten-america-1763055526075/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shutdown-ends-hunger-crisis-exposes-washington-s-forgotten-america-1763055526075/embed</a>&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the US expanded its military presence in the region by positioning its aircraft carrier strike group as part of its campaign against drug cartels, the Navy’s Fourth Fleet announced Tuesday (Nov 11).

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Thursday (Nov 13) announced a new operation against “narco-terrorists” in the Western Hemisphere. The military campaign, dubbed “Southern Spear”, will be led by a joint task force and is aimed at securing “our homeland from the drugs that are killing our people,” he said, without giving further details about the operation. This comes after Pentagon officials said on Thursday (Nov 13) that the United States conducted its 20th strike on an alleged drug trafficking boat. At least four people were killed in the strike, which took place on Monday (Nov 10). “President Trump ordered action — and the Department of War is delivering,” Hegseth wrote in a post on X. “Today, I’m announcing Operation SOUTHERN SPEAR.” “Led by Joint Task Force Southern Spear and @SOUTHCOM, this mission defends our Homeland, removes narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere, and secures our Homeland from the drugs that are killing our people. The Western Hemisphere is America’s neighborhood – and we will protect it,” he said. The announcement comes amid speculations that the US may be preparing to strike targets in Venezuela, calling its President Nicolas Maduro illegitimate and the head of a narco-trafficking network. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened attacks on the country following several strikes against boats allegedly smuggling drugs in the Caribbean and the eastern Pacific Ocean. Earlier this week, the US expanded its military presence in the region by positioning its aircraft carrier strike group as part of its campaign against drug cartels, the Navy’s Fourth Fleet announced Tuesday (Nov 11). Rubio pushes back EU criticism While the Pentagon has stated that the operations are being conducted to disrupt drug-trafficking networks, the strikes have drawn criticism from governments in the region for their mounting civilian toll and lack of transparency. At least 79 people have been killed as a result of the strikes so far. Defending the US strikes against alleged drug vessels, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday (Nov 12) said that the European Union don’t get to determine how the United States defends its national security. “I don’t think that the European Union gets to determine what international law is. They certainly don’t get to determine is how the United States defends its national security. The United States is under attack from organized criminal narco-terrorists in our hemisphere, and the president is responding in the defense of our country,” Rubio told reporters following a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers in Canada. Watch | US Shutdown Ends, Hunger Crisis Exposes Washington's Forgotten America https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-shutdown-ends-hunger-crisis-exposes-washington-s-forgotten-america-1763055526075/embed

Earlier this week, the US expanded its military presence in the region by positioning its aircraft carrier strike group as part of its campaign against drug cartels, the Navy’s Fourth Fleet announced Tuesday (Nov 11).

‘Drugs are killing our people...’: Hegseth announces ‘Operation Southern Spear’ – What is it?

A US strike on what officials described as a drug-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean killed three people on Saturday (Nov 1), Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth confirmed. The attack is the latest in a series of controversial US operations in international waters targeting suspected narcotics smugglers. It comes as Washington in recent days has ramped up its military presence in the region, deploying Navy ships across the Caribbean and stationing F-35 fighter jets in Puerto Rico. The Pentagon says the goal is to disrupt drug-trafficking networks, but the campaign has drawn criticism from governments in the region for its mounting civilian toll and lack of transparency.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-not-considering-strikes-within-venezuela-as-maduro-accuses-us-of-pushing-slanderous-narrative-to-justify-attack-1761970255648">Trump says not considering strikes within Venezuela as Maduro accuses US of pushing ‘slanderous narrative’ to justify attack</a><h2>Washington claims to have destroyed ‘another narco-trafficking vessel’</h2>On X, Hegseth announced that the latest strike destroyed "another narco-trafficking vessel... in the Caribbean," that intelligence officials had linked to illicit smuggling. "Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters. All three terrorists were killed," he wrote.The US Secretary of War also posted video footage of the attack, showing a fiery explosion as the vessel was hit. "Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters. All three terrorists were killed," he wrote, adding that Washington would continue to "hunt... and kill" alleged drug traffickers. However, as with previous clips released by the US government, portions of the footage were blurred, making it impossible to verify details or confirm who was on board.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-pm-mark-carney-reveals-he-apologised-to-trump-after-reagan-ad-derails-trade-talks-1761980821163">Canada PM Mark Carney reveals he apologised to Trump after Reagan ad derails trade talks</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on another narco-trafficking vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO) in the Caribbean. This vessel—like EVERY OTHER—was known by our intelligence to be… <a href="https://t.co/W7xqeMpSUi">pic.twitter.com/W7xqeMpSUi</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1984816590940987802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>US strikes in the Caribbean</h2>The Pentagon has carried out more than 15 similar strikes across the Caribbean and Pacific since early September, reportedly killing at least 65 people. Critics say the US has yet to provide any public evidence linking the destroyed vessels to narcotics trafficking or demonstrating that those killed posed any threat.UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday urged Washington to halt the operations, saying that the killings happened "in circumstances that find no justification in international law." Turk, in a statement, said that "These attacks -- and their mounting human cost -- are unacceptable".Regional leaders have also condemned the strikes. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro accused the US of using counter-narcotics operations as a cover for "regime change" in Caracas and for gaining control over Venezuela’s oil resources. The Trump administration has denied any plans for military action against Venezuela. Meanwhile, the US government, in a notice to Congress, has argued that it is engaged in an "armed conflict" with Latin American drug cartels, classifying them as terrorist organisations to justify the strikes.&nbsp;

A US airstrike on a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean killed three people on Saturday (Nov 1), Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth confirmed.

A US strike on what officials described as a drug-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean killed three people on Saturday (Nov 1), Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth confirmed. The attack is the latest in a series of controversial US operations in international waters targeting suspected narcotics smugglers. It comes as Washington in recent days has ramped up its military presence in the region, deploying Navy ships across the Caribbean and stationing F-35 fighter jets in Puerto Rico. The Pentagon says the goal is to disrupt drug-trafficking networks, but the campaign has drawn criticism from governments in the region for its mounting civilian toll and lack of transparency. Also read | Trump says not considering strikes within Venezuela as Maduro accuses US of pushing ‘slanderous narrative’ to justify attack Washington claims to have destroyed ‘another narco-trafficking vessel’ On X, Hegseth announced that the latest strike destroyed "another narco-trafficking vessel... in the Caribbean," that intelligence officials had linked to illicit smuggling. "Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters. All three terrorists were killed," he wrote. The US Secretary of War also posted video footage of the attack, showing a fiery explosion as the vessel was hit. "Three male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters. All three terrorists were killed," he wrote, adding that Washington would continue to "hunt... and kill" alleged drug traffickers. However, as with previous clips released by the US government, portions of the footage were blurred, making it impossible to verify details or confirm who was on board. Also read | Canada PM Mark Carney reveals he apologised to Trump after Reagan ad derails trade talks

A US airstrike on a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean killed three people on Saturday (Nov 1), Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth confirmed.

US strike kills 3 in Caribbean, critics say ‘no justification under international law’

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said on Friday that the US carried out another strike on a vessel allegedly operated by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua that he said was trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Hegseth said on social media that the strike took place in international waters and killed all six men who were on board. He said it is the first strike to take place at night.“The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics,” Hegseth wrote in a post on X.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea. The vessel was known by our… <a href="https://t.co/lVlw0FLBv4">pic.twitter.com/lVlw0FLBv4</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1981706596972372446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-strikes-another-alleged-drug-vessel-for-the-first-time-in-pacific-two-killed-1761159809371">US strikes another alleged drug vessel, for the first time in Pacific; two killed</a>&nbsp;“Six male narco-terrorists were aboard the vessel during the strike, which was conducted in international waters—and was the first strike at night. All six terrorists were killed and no US forces were harmed in this strike,” the war secretary added.&nbsp;If you are a narco-terrorist smuggling drugs in our hemisphere, we will treat you like we treat Al-Qaeda. Day or NIGHT, we will map your networks, track your people, hunt you down, and kill you, he warned.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pardons-convicted-binance-founder-changpeng-zhao-having-ties-with-family-s-crypto-venture-1761237371961">Trump pardons convicted Binance founder Changpeng Zhao having ties with family crypto venture</a>&nbsp;Earlier, on Tuesday night, the US struck another alleged drug vessel, this time on the Pacific side of South America. In the eighth such US attack on a boat since Sept. 2, two individuals aboard the vessel were killed, Hegseth had revealed. The other seven strikes had targeted vessels in the Caribbean. A defence official confirmed the vessel was in international waters off of Colombia. Hegseth wrote on social media that the Defense Department conducted the strike at President Trump’s direction and alleged the vessel was operated by a “designated terrorist organization and conducting narco-trafficking in the Eastern Pacific.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terrorists-who-abducted-noa-argamani-avinatan-or-and-eitan-mor-from-nova-festival-killed-in-war-idf-1761249576918">Terrorists who abducted Noa Argamani, Avinatan Or and Eitan Mor from Nova music festival killed in war: IDF&nbsp;</a>

Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, said US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday.

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said on Friday that the US carried out another strike on a vessel allegedly operated by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua that he said was trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea. Hegseth said on social media that the strike took place in international waters and killed all six men who were on board. He said it is the first strike to take place at night. “The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics,” Hegseth wrote in a post on X.

Overnight, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Tren de Aragua (TdA), a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO), trafficking narcotics in the Caribbean Sea, said US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Friday.

Fresh US strike on Venezuelan gang’s drug-smuggling boat kills 6 narco-terrorists, says Hegseth

US President Donald Trump said that two surviving "narcoterrorists" from a semi-submersible vessel destroyed by the US military in the Caribbean will be sent to their home countries of Ecuador and Colombia, Al Jazeera reported. "It was my great honour to destroy a very large DRUG-CARRYING SUBMARINE that was navigating towards the United States on a well-known narcotrafficking transit route," Trump wrote on Truth Social on Saturday. He said that US intelligence has confirmed the vessel was carrying fentanyl and other narcotics. The vessel was targeted on Thursday in what Trump described as a strike aimed at disrupting a major drug trafficking route. Two crew members were killed, he said, while two others survived and were airlifted by US forces in a helicopter rescue operation to a nearby US Navy warship. The US military held the survivors on board at least until Friday evening, as per Al Jazeera. The press office for Ecuador's government said it was not aware of the plans for repatriation. There was no immediate comment from Colombian authorities. The president has justified the strikes by asserting that the United States is engaged in an "armed conflict" with drug cartels. He is relying on the same legal authority used by the administration of former President George W Bush when it declared a war on terrorism after the September 11 attacks on the US. This includes the ability to capture and detain combatants and use lethal force to take out their leadership. Trump is also treating the suspected traffickers as if they were enemy soldiers in a traditional war, Al Jazeera reported. At least six vessels, most of them speedboats, have been targeted by US strikes in the Caribbean since September, with Venezuela alleged to be the origin of some of them. Washington says its campaign is dealing a decisive blow to drug trafficking, but it has provided no evidence that the people killed were drug smugglers. With Trump's confirmation of the death toll on his Truth Social platform, that means US military actions against vessels in the region have killed at least 29 people.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US President Trump on Truth Social announced that the two survivors of a semi-submersible “drug-carrying submarine” US destroyed in the Caribbean would be sent to Ecuador and Colombia. 

US President Donald Trump said that two surviving "narcoterrorists" from a semi-submersible vessel destroyed by the US military in the Caribbean will be sent to their home countries of Ecuador and Colombia, Al Jazeera reported. "It was my great honour to destroy a very large DRUG-CARRYING SUBMARINE that was navigating towards the United States on a well-known narcotrafficking transit route," Trump wrote on Truth Social on Saturday. He said that US intelligence has confirmed the vessel was carrying fentanyl and other narcotics. The vessel was targeted on Thursday in what Trump described as a strike aimed at disrupting a major drug trafficking route. Two crew members were killed, he said, while two others survived and were airlifted by US forces in a helicopter rescue operation to a nearby US Navy warship. The US military held the survivors on board at least until Friday evening, as per Al Jazeera. The press office for Ecuador's government said it was not aware of the plans for repatriation. There was no immediate comment from Colombian authorities. The president has justified the strikes by asserting that the United States is engaged in an "armed conflict" with drug cartels. He is relying on the same legal authority used by the administration of former President George W Bush when it declared a war on terrorism after the September 11 attacks on the US. This includes the ability to capture and detain combatants and use lethal force to take out their leadership. Trump is also treating the suspected traffickers as if they were enemy soldiers in a traditional war, Al Jazeera reported. At least six vessels, most of them speedboats, have been targeted by US strikes in the Caribbean since September, with Venezuela alleged to be the origin of some of them. Washington says its campaign is dealing a decisive blow to drug trafficking, but it has provided no evidence that the people killed were drug smugglers. With Trump's confirmation of the death toll on his Truth Social platform, that means US military actions against vessels in the region have killed at least 29 people. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US President Trump on Truth Social announced that the two survivors of a semi-submersible “drug-carrying submarine” US destroyed in the Caribbean would be sent to Ecuador and Colombia.&nbsp;

Trump says two 'narcoterrorists' from destroyed drug submarine to be repatriated to Colombia and Ecuador

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had authorised covert CIA operations against Venezuela but dodged questions on whether he had green-lighted an attempt on the nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump framed his actions as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing Maduro’s alleged role as the leader of a "narco-terrorist" regime and releasing prisoners who make their way to the United States.<h2>Has Trump given the CIA an order to "take out" Maduro?</h2>When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous"."That's a ridiculous question for me to be given. Not really a ridiculous question, but wouldn't it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?" he said, offering no clear confirmation. However, his dodge has raised eyebrows on whether a covert CIA operation was going to do exactly that.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-i-don-t-want-to-destroy-his-political-career-trump-makes-bizarre-remark-about-pm-modi-1760580304027">‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi</a><h2>After international waters, US to strike Venezuelan land targets?</h2>Just a day after he announced yet another US strike on an alleged boat in the Caribbean — the latest in a series of naval strikes — Trump, on Wednesday, indicated the US may expand its operations against alleged Venezuelan drug cartels onto land. "We are certainly looking at land now, because we've got the sea very well under control." US strikes on suspected drug vessels have so far killed at least 27 people. Legal experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in international waters against targets who have not been apprehended or interrogated.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-india-s-modi-promised-us-it-will-no-longer-buy-russian-oil-here-s-what-trump-claims-1760574591627">Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims</a><h2>Maduro slams Trump's "coups d'etat" attempt</h2>The US president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from Maduro, who decried US operations as “coups d’etat orchestrated by the CIA” and ordered military exercises across Venezuela, including shantytowns and coastal areas. "No to war in the Caribbean...No to regime change...No to coups d'etat orchestrated by the CIA," &nbsp;he said. The Venezuelan leader on Telegram, as per AFP, announced that he was mobilising the military, police, and a civilian militia to defend Venezuela's "mountains, coasts, schools, hospitals, factories and markets," against any potential US aggression.

When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous".

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that he had authorised covert CIA operations against Venezuela but dodged questions on whether he had green-lighted an attempt on the nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump framed his actions as part of a broader anti-drug campaign, citing Maduro’s alleged role as the leader of a "narco-terrorist" regime and releasing prisoners who make their way to the United States. Has Trump given the CIA an order to "take out" Maduro? When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous". "That's a ridiculous question for me to be given. Not really a ridiculous question, but wouldn't it be a ridiculous question for me to answer?" he said, offering no clear confirmation. However, his dodge has raised eyebrows on whether a covert CIA operation was going to do exactly that. Also read | ‘I don’t want to destroy his political career’: Trump makes bizarre remark about PM Modi After international waters, US to strike Venezuelan land targets? Just a day after he announced yet another US strike on an alleged boat in the Caribbean — the latest in a series of naval strikes — Trump, on Wednesday, indicated the US may expand its operations against alleged Venezuelan drug cartels onto land. "We are certainly looking at land now, because we've got the sea very well under control." US strikes on suspected drug vessels have so far killed at least 27 people. Legal experts have questioned the legality of using lethal force in international waters against targets who have not been apprehended or interrogated. Also read | Did Modi promise US that India will no longer buy Russian oil? Here's what Trump claims Maduro slams Trump's "coups d'etat" attempt The US president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from Maduro, who decried US operations as “coups d’etat orchestrated by the CIA” and ordered military exercises across Venezuela, including shantytowns and coastal areas. "No to war in the Caribbean...No to regime change...No to coups d'etat orchestrated by the CIA," he said. The Venezuelan leader on Telegram, as per AFP, announced that he was mobilising the military, police, and a civilian militia to defend Venezuela's "mountains, coasts, schools, hospitals, factories and markets," against any potential US aggression.

When pressed directly on the explosive question of whether he had secretly given the CIA authority to “take out” Maduro, Trump sidestepped and labelled the query "ridiculous".

‘Ridiculous question’: Trump dodges question on whether he ordered CIA to 'take out' Maduro

Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif's close aide has admitted that drones are being used to send drugs into India. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report on Pakistan's narco-terrorism.

Gravitas: Pak official admits drones are dropping drugs in India | Pakistan's narco-terrorism exposed

India has for long accused Pakistan of narco-terrorism but Islamabad has denied all such claims. Now in a major turn, a senior member of Pakistan government has acknowledged the drug menace which Pakistan has been unleashing from its territory.

Pakistani official admits to narco-terrorism, first ever admission by government official

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Gravitas: Pak official admits drones are dropping drugs in India | Pakistan's narco-terrorism exposed

Pakistani official admits to narco-terrorism, first ever admission by government official