US military says five killed in latest strike on alleged drug boats

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 1, 2026 at 11:19 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

The US military, under the Trump administration's "war on drugs," conducted another strike on two boats allegedly carrying drugs on Wednesday, killing five people. US Southern Command, which has been targeting suspected narcotics smugglers in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific for three months, did not disclose the location of the strike. This action follows a previous strike on December 30th that targeted three vessels, resulting in at least three deaths. Since September 2nd, there have been over 30 strikes, resulting in more than 110 deaths. The initial strike, where a "double-tap" killed survivors clinging to the wreckage, has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers. While the US claims intelligence confirms the vessels were involved in drug trafficking, no evidence has been provided.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington, D.C. 30% Reuters 40% United States Coast Guard 50% Caribbean 60% Pacific Ocean 60% Trump administration ×270% United States ×680% US Southern Command ×590%

Keywords

drug boats 90% narco-trafficking 80% us military strikes 80% war on drugs 70% international waters 60% us southern command 50% rules of engagement 50% double-tap strike 40% survivors 40%