WASHINGTON (AP) — In a bold move against drug trafficking, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday that the U.S. military executed another strike on a vessel observed to be transporting narcotics in the eastern Pacific Ocean, leading to the fatal consequences for all four individuals aboard. In his statement shared via social media, Hegseth described the vessel as 'transiting along a known narco-trafficking route' and affirmed that the strike took place in international waters, ensuring that no U.S. personnel were harmed.

A dramatic video posted by Hegseth captures the moment of the strike, showcasing the boat engulfed in flames and smoke against the backdrop of the ocean.

This latest strike is part of a cooperative effort by the Trump administration that has been ongoing for nearly two months, marked by an increase in U.S. military forces in the region. The escalation has contributed to speculation that these military maneuvers may be aimed at ousting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the U.S. has labeled as a narcoterrorist.

However, the Trump administration has faced scrutiny for failing to provide substantiated evidence linking the vessels targeted to drug cartels or clarifying the identities of the deceased individuals since the strikes commenced in early September. As this contentious campaign unfolds, further developments are anticipated in the area of drug enforcement and international relations.}