The United States is prepared to utilize military might against drug cartel operations at sea, according to War Secretary Pete Hegseth. Hegseth firmly stated that President Trump has the prerogative to deploy force “as he sees fit” to defend the nation. His remarks, made during an event in California, aimed to preemptively address criticisms labeling the strikes on cartel boats as potential war crimes. Hegseth equated drug cartels with terrorist groups, asserting, “President Trump can and will take decisive military action as he sees fit to defend our nation’s interests.” This policy has led to numerous strikes, including a recent incident in the Eastern Pacific where U.S. forces eliminated four individuals on a vessel confirmed to be carrying narcotics and operating on a known trafficking route. Over 80 people have reportedly perished in these operations.
