Story perspectives

Trump Administration Justifies Unchecked Military Strikes on Cartels

11/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

T. Elliot Gaiser, head of the Office of Legal Counsel, told Congress the Trump administration can continue lethal strikes on drug traffickers without congressional approval.
Gaiser argued that these strikes do not constitute 'hostilities' under the War Powers Resolution.
Since September, the U.S. military has conducted at least 15 strikes, with 64 deaths.
U.S. President Donald Trump designated drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, potentially expanding operations, especially in Venezuela.

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Story summary

T. Elliot Gaiser, head of the Office of Legal Counsel, told Congress the Trump administration can continue lethal strikes on drug traffickers without congressional approval.
Gaiser argued that these strikes do not constitute 'hostilities' under the War Powers Resolution.
Since September, the U.S. military has conducted at least 15 strikes, with 64 deaths.
U.S. President Donald Trump designated drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, potentially expanding operations, especially in Venezuela.