Trump plans imminent land strikes on alleged drug traffickers

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that his administration could soon expand its anti-drug operations to target traffickers on land across Latin America, escalating the U.S. militarys ongoing campaign against suspected drug shipments at sea.

"We are going to begin conducting strikes on land as well," Trump said during a Cabinet meeting when asked about maritime operations. "Land is simpler, and we know their routes, their locations, and where the key traffickers reside. This will begin very soon."

The president did not specify exact locations or timing for potential land attacks. Recent reports suggest that military operations in Venezuela have been discussed, amid accusations by the Trump administration that President Nicols Maduro collaborates with drug cartels, a charge Maduro denies. Trump emphasized, however, that any nation involved in drug production or trafficking could be targeted, specifically citing Colombia for its alleged inability to control drug flows.

For months, Trump has hinted at expanding sea-based strikes to land targets, stating in October he was "fully prepared" to take such action. The U.S. military has also increased its presence in the Caribbean, deploying the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and F-35 jets to Puerto Rico. Over the past weekend, Trump suggested Venezuelas airspace should be considered restricted.

If executed, land strikes would mark a major escalation of U.S. anti-drug efforts in Latin America. So far, the administration has targeted more than 20 alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, resulting in over 80 deaths. These maritime strikes have been controversial, with some lawmakers questioning their legality and whether sufficient evidence exists that the vessels carried drugs. The White House has classified its campaign as a "non-international armed conflict" against drug cartels, designated as terrorist groups. Reports also indicated that a September boat strike involved a second attack on survivors, which some critics claim could constitute a war crime, though officials assert the action was lawful.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned that any land operation could be considered an act of war, invoking the War Powers Act, which restricts presidential authority to initiate military action without Congress. Previous attempts in Congress to curtail the campaign have largely failed, including votes to block strikes on Venezuela or end attacks on drug boats.

Trumps announcement drew immediate responses from Latin American leaders. Colombian President Gustavo Petro defended his governments anti-drug efforts and cautioned against threats to sovereignty, saying, "Do not threaten our sovereignty, because you will awaken the jaguar." Venezuelan officials similarly accused the U.S. of intimidation and attempting to destabilize Maduros government. Trump has not clarified his strategy toward Venezuela but indicated in November that he has largely made up his mind on the next steps.

Author: Sophia Brooks