14 dead in more strikes against alleged drug boats, Hegseth says
The United States has taken action against four more suspected drug vessels in the Eastern Pacific, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. In a statement released on October 28, 2025, Hegseth revealed that the Department of War had conducted three lethal kinetic strikes on four vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations (DTO) involved in drug trafficking.
The latest operation brings the total number of casualties to over 50. Hegseth also mentioned that there was one survivor from the recent round of strikes. Following the strikes, the USSOUTHCOM initiated Search and Rescue (SAR) standard protocols, with Mexican SAR authorities taking over the coordination of the rescue efforts.
The use of lethal force in the ongoing campaign against drug cartels has sparked legal concerns. The U.S. military has now targeted a total of 10 suspected drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Additionally, in a separate move, the U.S. recently deployed the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and its accompanying aircraft to the waters surrounding Central and South America, as part of an effort to increase pressure on the Venezuelan government.
This marks a continuation of the administration’s aggressive stance against drug trafficking and organized crime in the region. The situation is still evolving, and further updates are expected. Stay tuned for the latest developments on this story.
