US strikes alleged drug vessel on Pacific side of South America, CBS reports

The United States on Tuesday struck an alleged drug-trafficking vessel on the Pacific side of South America, CBS reported on Wednesday, citing two U.S. officials.

In recent months, U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered strikes on at least six suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean, killing at least 27 people.

The strikes are part of Trump's campaign against what he says is a "narcoterrorist" threat emanating from Venezuela and linked to its president, Nicolas Maduro.


The United States has been building up its military presence in the Caribbean, including guided-missile destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, a nuclear submarine and around 6,500 troops.

Trump said last week that he had also authorized the Central Intelligence Agency to conduct covert operations in Venezuela.