Washington's aims in the region are not entirely clear after fatally striking a drug-carrying vessel earlier this week, analysts say.

The attack is the first known operation since a recent surge of US warships to the region to combat cartels.

The attack is the first known operation since a recent surge of US warships to the region to combat cartels.

President Donald Trump said 11 members of the Tren de Aragua cartel were killed in the strike.

The Trump administration has signalled a willingness to use military force against drug cartels.

The US military attack comes as the US surges military presence in the Caribbean, risking an escalation with Venezuela.

Washington's aims in the region are not entirely clear after fatally striking a drug-carrying vessel earlier this week, analysts say.

Move comes after accusing Venezuela of buzzing US warship and a deadly US missile strike in Caribbean Sea