The US military conducted a strike on a vessel from Venezuela that was allegedly transporting illegal narcotics, resulting in the death of 11 individuals.

This operation marks the first known military action since President Donald Trump recently deployed warships to the southern Caribbean.

Speaking at the White House, Trump stated, “We just, over the last few minutes, literally shot out a boat, a drug carrying boat , a lot of drugs in that boat”.

He continued highlighting the ongoing issue of drug trafficking into the United States, which he claims has been a long-standing problem.

Trump later shared a video on his Truth Social platform, purportedly showing drone footage of the speedboat exploding and subsequently catching fire. He confirmed that the strike resulted in the deaths of 11 alleged terrorists with no US forces harmed during the operation.

According to Trump, the crew of the vessel was identified as members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Araqua designated as a terrorist group by the US in February.

He reiterated accusations that Tren de Aragua operates under the control of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro claims that the Venezuelan government has denied.

The Pentagon has yet to provide details regarding the specifics of the attack, including the types and quantities of drugs onboard or the method of the strike. The decision to destroy a suspected drug vessel, rather than seizing it and apprehending the crew, is considered unusual and reminiscent of US military actions against militant groups like Al Qaeda.

In recent weeks, the US has increased its naval presence in the Southern Caribbean in response to Trump’s commitment to combat drug cartels. The strike appears to be the first military operation in the region aimed at addressing this issue.

Currently, seven US warships and one nuclear powered fast attack submarine are in the area, manned by over 4,500 sailors and Marines.

The deployment includes notable vessels such as the USS San Antonio, USS lwo Jima and USS Fort Lauderdale some of which are equipped to carry helicopters and deploy Tomahawk cruise missiles. The US military P-8 spy planes have also been conducting reconnaissance missions over international waters in the region.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked that the drugs were likely headed to Trinidad or other Caribbean destinations, emphasising that the administration will take an aggressive stance against drug cartels and trafficking.

Trump’s focus on Maduro has raised concerns in Caracas regarding potential US intentions. Last month, the US doubled its reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to $50 million, citing his alleged ties to drug trafficking and criminal organisations.

Venezuelan officials have repeatedly claimed that Tren de Aragua is no longer active in their country after a raid dismantled the group in 2023.