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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 24, 2026Miami-Dade

U.S. military kills two in eastern Pacific vessel strike

The U.S. military conducted a lethal strike on a vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean on Sunday, resulting in two deaths. This action marks the first such attack in approximately two months as part of an ongoing campaign against alleged drug trafficking.

military operationsdrug traffickingforeign policyLatin Americanational security
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Why It Matters

The U.S. military campaign has now resulted in over 210 deaths across more than 60 strikes, raising ongoing questions regarding the legality, effectiveness, and targeting procedures of these operations in international waters.

Key Facts

  • Two people were killed in a U.S. military strike on a vessel in the eastern Pacific on Sunday.
  • The total death toll from the U.S. campaign against drug-trafficking boats now exceeds 210.
  • The military has conducted more than 60 strikes in the eastern Pacific and Caribbean since early September.
  • The Pentagon did not provide evidence that the vessel struck on Sunday was carrying drugs.
  • The Trump administration is seeking agreements with Colombia, Guatemala, and Honduras to conduct joint military operations on land.
  • Guatemala has denied reaching an agreement with the U.S. for joint operations.
  • The Pentagon's inspector general is reviewing whether the military followed the 'Joint Targeting Cycle' during these strikes.
  • Critics note that much of the fentanyl entering the U.S. is trafficked over land from Mexico, rather than by sea.

Who's Mentioned

locationEcuador“Country that launched joint missions in March.”locationGuatemala“Country involved in potential joint operations.”locationColombia“Country involved in potential joint operations.”personFrancis Donovan“General leading U.S. Southern Command.”personPete Hegseth“Defense Secretary.”organizationU.S. Southern Command“The military command responsible for the strike.”locationHonduras“Country involved in potential joint operations.”personDonald Trump“President of the United States.”