The U.S. military has recently intensified its operations in the Caribbean, particularly near Venezuela, marking a notable escalation in its long-standing anti-drug efforts. Under President Donald Trump, the Pentagon has reportedly destroyed numerous vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking, with claims of at least 76 fatalities resulting from these strikes. However, critics have raised serious humanitarian concerns, noting that no substantial evidence has been provided to support the accusations against these vessels.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the formal designation of the U.S. military's anti-drug campaign as 'Operation Southern Spear,' reflecting an increased commitment to combat narcoterrorism in the region. This operation has seen the deployment of nearly a dozen Navy ships and approximately 12,000 sailors and Marines, coinciding with the arrival of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford in Caribbean waters. The operation aims to defend U.S. national security and eliminate perceived threats from drug-trafficking organizations, which the Trump administration claims are linked to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's government.

The U.S. military's actions have expanded from the southern Caribbean to the eastern Pacific, targeting vessels off the coast of Mexico. The Trump administration has characterized these military operations as necessary for national security, asserting that drug-trafficking vessels represent a direct threat. However, this increased military presence has drawn criticism for potentially exacerbating regional tensions and impacting local populations adversely.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has responded to the U.S. military's actions by ordering his country's security forces to halt intelligence sharing with the United States until the strikes on suspected drug traffickers cease. Petro has condemned these strikes as akin to extrajudicial executions, emphasizing the need for a drug policy that prioritizes human rights.

The U.S. drug war, which has its roots in policies initiated during the Nixon administration, has historically intertwined military operations with foreign policy objectives in Latin America. Critics argue that this militarized approach has often overlooked the social and humanitarian consequences, contributing to ongoing cycles of violence and instability in the region. As the U.S. government pursues its objectives in the Caribbean, the implications for civilian populations and the effectiveness of such strategies remain critical points of concern.