U.S. Airstrikes in Caribbean Ignite International Controversy

Between September 2 and October 16, 2025, the United States military conducted a series of airstrikes in the Caribbean Sea, targeting vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking operations linked to Venezuelan organizations. These operations resulted in at least 27 fatalities and have ignited significant international and domestic controversy.

The U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, justified these actions by designating the targeted individuals as "unlawful combatants" and asserting that the strikes were necessary to combat narcoterrorism. However, the administration has not publicly provided evidence to substantiate the claims that the vessels were carrying narcotics.

Venezuela has formally appealed to the United Nations Security Council, requesting a declaration that the U.S. strikes are illegal and an affirmation of its sovereignty. Venezuelan officials claim that the strikes have resulted in civilian casualties and accuse the U.S. of violating international law.

Domestically, the operations have led to internal tensions within the U.S. military. Admiral Alvin Holsey, commander of the U.S. Southern Command overseeing these operations, announced his early retirement, effective December 2025. His departure follows scrutiny over the legality and strategic objectives of the strikes.

The family of Chad Joseph, a 26-year-old Trinidadian man reportedly killed in one of the strikes, is demanding proof of allegations that he was involved in drug trafficking. They describe him as a humble fisherman and criticize the U.S. for targeting the vessel without substantiating evidence.

These developments underscore the complex geopolitical and legal challenges arising from the U.S. military's expanded role in counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean region.

The U.S. military's actions have also raised questions about the legal frameworks used to justify the strikes. The Trump administration has drawn on legal frameworks used to combat al-Qaida, authorizing lethal force against cartel members. Experts criticize this approach, noting that drug trafficking does not meet the threshold for declaring war under international law. Critics also argue there's insufficient evidence to justify classifying drug cartels as enemy combatants, and Congress has not authorized these military actions.

A recent war powers resolution was voted down by the GOP-controlled Senate, and members of Congress have reportedly been denied access to key legal justifications.

The U.S. has deployed significant forces to the Caribbean, including guided missile destroyers, F-35 jets, and a nuclear submarine. President Trump also authorized covert CIA operations inside Venezuela, sparking speculation about attempts to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro.

In response, Venezuela has mobilized warships, drones, larger naval vessels, and 15,000 soldiers to patrol its coastline and the border with Colombia. The government also called on civilians to join militias and denounced U.S. actions at the UN as a threat to regional stability.

These developments highlight the escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with potential implications for regional stability and international law.