Escalating U.S. Caribbean Strikes: A New Era of Drug War Tactics?
The U.S. Military’s recent actions in the Caribbean, involving lethal strikes against vessels suspected of drug trafficking, mark a significant escalation in the ongoing “war on drugs.” A strike on Friday, February 13, 2026, resulted in the deaths of three individuals, following a similar incident earlier in the week in the Pacific. This brings the total death toll from such operations to at least 133 people in 39 strikes since September, according to Pentagon statements tallied by the Intercept.
From Pacific to Caribbean: A Shifting Focus
Even as the majority of recent strikes have occurred in the Pacific Ocean, the renewed activity in the Caribbean signals a potential shift in focus. This comes after a period of reduced U.S. Intervention in the region following the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January on narco-terrorism charges. The strikes resumed in late January.
Legal and Ethical Concerns Mount
The legality of these operations is facing increasing scrutiny. Experts argue the strikes amount to extrajudicial killings, lacking due process and accountability. The Washington Office on Latin America highlights that those killed are denied any legal recourse, with the Trump administration asserting a broad authority to eliminate perceived “terrorists.”
Internal Discord at Southern Command
The policy of conducting these strikes isn’t without internal debate. The recent retirement of Admiral Alvin Holsey, the former head of Southern Command, is reportedly linked to disagreements over the boat-strike policy. General Francis L. Donovan assumed command earlier this month.
The “Narco-Terrorism” Framework and Lack of Evidence
The Pentagon frames these operations as a campaign against “narco-terrorism,” but has offered limited evidence to support claims of coordinated drug-smuggling rings. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently claimed some cartel leaders have ceased operations due to the strikes, but provided no supporting details.
What’s Driving the Increased Aggression?
The escalation in tactics suggests a growing frustration within the Trump administration regarding the continued flow of illegal drugs into the U.S. President Trump has stated the U.S. Is in “armed conflict” with cartels, justifying the strikes as a necessary response. However, critics question the effectiveness and proportionality of these actions.
Future Trends and Potential Implications
Increased Militarization of Drug Interdiction
The current trend points towards a greater reliance on military force in drug interdiction efforts. This could lead to further expansion of the scope and frequency of these strikes, potentially extending to other regions.
Escalation of Regional Tensions
The U.S. Actions are already causing friction with regional leaders, such as Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who has denounced the strikes as war crimes. Continued escalation could further destabilize the region and strain diplomatic relations.
Blurring Lines Between Drug Enforcement and Counterterrorism
The “narco-terrorism” framework allows for the application of counterterrorism tactics to drug enforcement, blurring the lines between these traditionally distinct areas of operation. This raises concerns about the potential for mission creep and the erosion of civil liberties.
The Role of Emerging Technologies
Future operations may increasingly rely on advanced technologies, such as drones, artificial intelligence, and enhanced surveillance capabilities, to identify and track suspected drug trafficking vessels.
FAQ
Q: What is U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM)?
A: SOUTHCOM is the U.S. Military command responsible for military operations in Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
Q: How many people have been killed in these strikes?
A: At least 133 people have been killed in 39 strikes since September, excluding the most recent strike on February 13, 2026.
Q: Is there controversy surrounding these strikes?
A: Yes, legal experts and advocacy groups argue the strikes are extrajudicial killings and lack due process.
Q: What is the U.S. Justification for these strikes?
A: The U.S. Government frames the operations as a campaign against “narco-terrorism” and a necessary step to stem the flow of drugs into the country.
Did you know? The U.S. Resumed boat strikes in late January 2026 after largely backing off following the arrest of Nicolás Maduro.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the evolving situation in the Caribbean by following updates from U.S. Southern Command and reputable news sources.
Want to learn more about U.S. Foreign policy and its impact on Latin America? Explore our archive of related articles.
