CRIME & LAW

US Military Strikes Boats, Sanctions Target Venezuela's Oil

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Washington — The U.S. military struck multiple vessels this week that it described as alleged drug-smuggling boats, killing several people while others jumped overboard and may have survived. Southern Command posted video showing a convoy and said engagements occurred Tuesday and Wednesday in international waters; it notified the U.S. Coast Guard, which deployed aircraft for search-and-rescue. Since September, U.S. forces have carried out more than 30 strikes, raising the reported death toll to roughly 110–115. Separately, the Treasury Department this week sanctioned four Venezuelan oil firms and designated four tankers as blocked property. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Since September: U.S. forces conducted more than 30 strikes against suspected drug-smuggling vessels in Caribbean and eastern Pacific.
U.S. forces seized two oil tankers off Venezuela's coast and pursued an additional vessel, as previously reported.
A CIA drone strike targeted a docking area believed used by drug cartels, marking a direct operation linked to the campaign.
Dec. 30: Southern Command struck three vessels traveling as a convoy; several people reportedly abandoned ships and jumped overboard.
This week (late Dec.–early Jan.): Southern Command reported further strikes with additional deaths and the Treasury Department sanctioned four Venezuelan oil firms and four tankers.