Former President Trump announced a U.S. military strike targeting a Venezuelan vessel suspected of carrying drugs and linked to the Tren de Aragua cartel. Eleven alleged cartel members were killed in international waters. Trump claimed the action was taken on his orders to combat the flow of drugs into the U.S. The Venezuelan president, Maduro, warned of armed retaliation and accused Trump of being manipulated by the U.S. Secretary of State. The U.S. is increasing its maritime presence in the region to counter drug trafficking.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.