Overview

• President Trump said on Sept. 19 that U.S. forces attacked a drug-smuggling vessel on the high seas, killing three people, and he posted strike footage online.
• The White House said the operation occurred within U.S. Southern Command’s area covering Latin America and the Caribbean, while withholding the precise location.
• Video released by Trump shows a vessel moving at sea before a sudden explosion and fire, though independent verification of the target and cargo has not been provided.
• This was the third such strike he publicized this month after earlier announcements on Sept. 2 and Sept. 15, with the administration asserting ties to Maduro-aligned actors but no confirmation for the latest ship.
• On Sept. 20, Trump urged Venezuela to take back prisoners he alleges were sent to the United States, warning of “immeasurable” consequences, as some politicians and rights groups question the legality of the maritime attacks.