Overview
- U.S. Southern Command said a Dec. 30 strike on a three‑boat convoy in international waters killed three people as others jumped overboard.
- Hours later, SOUTHCOM announced a separate Dec. 31 strike on two more vessels that killed five, bringing the two‑day toll to eight.
- The military has not disclosed precise locations for the engagements, describing them only as occurring in international waters.
- SOUTHCOM said the targeted boats were operated by designated terrorist organizations and had transferred narcotics, while providing no public evidence; total deaths across the campaign have reached at least 115 according to the latest statements.
- The Coast Guard activated search and rescue, including a C‑130 deployment, with officials saying up to eight people may have abandoned the vessels, as the broader campaign faces legal challenges and follows a reported CIA strike at a Venezuelan dock area.