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In a rapid campaign, President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth say seven U.S. strikes on suspected drug-smuggling boats in the Caribbean have killed 32 people, part of a push Trump frames as an “armed conflict” with cartels. The operations, launched amid a sizable naval buildup off Venezuela, have proceeded without congressional authorization, sparking bipartisan concern over legal authority and evidence. Senate Republicans blocked a measure to require approval, Trump confirmed CIA covert authority inside Venezuela, and U.N.-commissioned experts condemned the actions as lacking proper legal basis and a dangerous escalation for regional security.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.