US Strikes Vessel Near Venezuela Draws Russian Condemnation Amid Rising Tensions
The US conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel in the eastern Pacific, resulting in four fatalities. US officials allege the vessel was engaged in narcotrafficking as part of efforts under the Trump administration to combat drug trafficking near Venezuela. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the operation’s lethal nature, noting the loss of four lives.
Since September, US strikes on boats suspected of transporting drugs have killed about 100 people. Over 20 US vessels reportedly operate in the Pacific and Caribbean near Venezuela in this campaign.
Russia's foreign ministry expressed hope that the Trump administration does not make a fatal mistake over Venezuela following this strike. Moscow warned of unpredictable consequences for the entire Western Hemisphere and expressed concern about potential impacts on international navigation.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro responded by accusing Trump of intending to remove him from office and vowed resistance from Venezuelan citizens and the military.
