Trump warns of potential military action against any country producing drugs for US.

On Tuesday, Donald Trump issued a warning that any nation believed to be manufacturing drugs for illegal distribution in the United States could face military action. His remarks came during a White House Q&A session, where he also indicated that strikes targeting Venezuelan land sites, which he accused of narco-terrorism, would commence shortly.

The discussion followed a lengthy cabinet meeting, during which Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggested that a navy admiral was responsible for the extrajudicial killing of two survivors from a September attack on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel. When asked if Venezuela was the sole target, Trump stated that any country producing drugs for illegal export could be attacked, reflecting previous threats toward Mexico.

If they are producing fentanyl or cocaine and shipping it to the US, whether through Venezuela or any other nation, they are at risk, Trump said, noting reports that Colombia has active cocaine operations. He emphasized that military action within Venezuela was imminent, escalating tensions that had already begun with targeted attacks on ships suspected of drug trafficking, though no public evidence had been shared.

Trump added, We will soon begin strikes on land. The land operations are simpler, and we have detailed knowledge of the routes, locations, and individuals involved. These actions will significantly reduce the numbers.

During the cabinet meeting, Hegseth provided a different account of his role in the September 2 double strike on the alleged drug vessel, which is being reviewed by congressional committees. He said he observed the first strike but did not remain for the subsequent hour or two when two survivors were fatally targeted, contradicting his previous statement to Fox News claiming full-time observation of the operation.

The admiral responsible for the second strike, Frank M. Mitch Bradley, is expected to brief congressional committees on Thursday.

Author: Sophia Brooks