US Military Conducts 22nd Strike on Suspected Drug Vessel in Eastern Pacific

On December 4, 2025, the United States military executed its 22nd airstrike targeting a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of four individuals aboard. This operation marks the first such strike in nearly three weeks and brings the total death toll of the campaign to at least 87.

Details of the Operation

The U.S. Southern Command released a video showing the targeted boat engulfed in flames following a large explosion. The vessel was identified as traveling along a well-known drug trafficking route, and intelligence indicated it was carrying illegal narcotics. The strike was authorized by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and carried out under the command of Admiral Frank “Mitch” Bradley.

Congressional Scrutiny and Legal Concerns

The timing of this latest strike coincides with Admiral Bradley’s appearance before lawmakers for classified briefings concerning a previous operation on September 2. That earlier strike has come under intense scrutiny due to reports that survivors of the initial attack were subsequently targeted and killed in a follow-up strike. Lawmakers who viewed the classified video footage offered conflicting interpretations. Some argued that the survivors posed a continuing threat, while others described the victims as defenseless individuals in distress, implying possible violations of the laws of military warfare.

International Reactions

The ongoing U.S. military campaign has drawn criticism from international leaders. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has denounced the strikes as politically motivated, adding to international tensions. The Trump administration maintains that these operations are essential to disrupt the transnational narcotics trade and protect U.S. national security interests.