U.S. Launches High-Stakes Naval Offensive Against Venezuelan Drug Cartels

On September 3, 2025, the United States initiated a sustained military campaign targeting Venezuelan drug cartels. Following a strike on a vessel linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal organization—resulting in 11 casualties—Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced continued operations against maritime narco-trafficking. A significant naval force, including guided-missile destroyers, an amphibious assault ship, a guided-missile cruiser, and a nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine, has been deployed in the Caribbean. President Trump shared footage of the strike, asserting the vessel carried substantial drug quantities, and framed the operation as a deterrent to future trafficking.

Author: Global Ripple

Posted on: September 03, 2025