The United States announced that eight people were killed in a series of new strikes on vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean, just days after US forces seized a Venezuelan oil tanker amid Washington’s expanding military presence in Latin America. In a statement posted on social media, the US Military Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed it carried out “lethal kinetic strikes” on three vessels in international waters on Monday, following orders from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
SOUTHCOM said a total of eight people were killed — three on the first vessel, two on the second, and three on the third — while alleging, without providing evidence, that those onboard were linked to drug trafficking.
Since September, at least 90 people have reportedly been killed in similar US operations targeting dozens of boats in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea near Venezuela. Legal experts have criticised the strikes as potential extrajudicial killings.
US lawmakers have questioned Secretary Hegseth about his involvement in previous incidents, including allegations that he ordered a second attack on survivors left floating in the water after an initial strike in September.
The Pentagon has deployed warships, a submarine, aircraft and drones to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, saying the expanded presence is part of efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Venezuela condemned the buildup, accusing Washington of using military force to position itself to exploit “Venezuela’s immense oil and gas resources.” Last week, after US forces seized an oil tanker near Venezuelan waters, President Donald Trump commented, “I assume we’re going to keep the oil.”
US Expands Access to Trinidad Airports
The attacks come as Washington continues to strengthen its military footprint around Venezuela. Trinidad and Tobago confirmed on Monday that it has authorised US military aircraft to use its airports “in the coming weeks” for logistical operations, including resupply and personnel rotation.
The island nation, located just 12km (7.4 miles) from Venezuela, has supported US actions more openly than many other regional governments. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has said she prefers drug traffickers to be “blown to pieces” rather than endanger citizens.
In response, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced on state broadcaster Telesur that Venezuela would halt gas supplies to Trinidad and Tobago.