President Donald Trump speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Washington, as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, looks on.
Jacquelyn Martin/AP
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Jacquelyn Martin/AP
The U.S. military strikes on alleged drug boats have killed over 200 people. The attacks began in September and aim to stem drug flow, but critics question their legality and effectiveness.
U.S. strikes on suspected drug boats since Sept. killed 200+; Trump claims narco-terrorists but victims are mostly low-wage laborers. Operation deemed ineffective (fentanyl overland, not seaborne) and illegal (no Cong. approval).
President Donald Trump speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in Washington, as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, looks on.
Jacquelyn Martin/AP
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Jacquelyn Martin/AP

What to know about US military strikes on alleged drug boats

Two killed in latest US military strike on alleged drug boat in eastern Pacific

U.S. strike on an alleged drug boat kills 2 in the eastern Pacific Ocean

Death toll from US strikes on alleged drug traffickers' boats exceeds 200 — NYT

Two killed in US strike on another alleged drug boat in Pacific as campaign’s death toll nears 200

US strike on an alleged drug boat kills 2 in the eastern Pacific Ocean

US strike on alleged drug boat kills two people in eastern Pacific Ocean

U.S. strikes boat in Pacific Ocean, kills two over alleged drug smuggling