Story perspectives

US Military Intensifies Drug Strikes, Faces International Backlash

10/24/2025

Summary

Story summary

The United States military has intensified operations against drug trafficking, with ten strikes and 43 deaths since September.
The latest strike targeted a vessel linked to the Tren de Aragua gang.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the strikes are justified under a new armed-conflict interpretation.
Critics, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, condemn the strikes as violations of international law and say the administration has not provided a legal basis.

History

Historical Context

The War on Drugs, initiated by President Nixon in 1971, intensified in the 1980s as the U.S. allocated over $1 billion annually to combat drug trafficking, particularly against Colombian cartels like Medellín and Cali. This aggressive military approach continues today, as seen in recent strikes against the Tren de Aragua gang, raising concerns about legality and the impact on U.S.-Colombia relations.

1 of 2

Story summary

The United States military has intensified operations against drug trafficking, with ten strikes and 43 deaths since September.
The latest strike targeted a vessel linked to the Tren de Aragua gang.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the strikes are justified under a new armed-conflict interpretation.
Critics, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, condemn the strikes as violations of international law and say the administration has not provided a legal basis.

1 / 2