The United Nations’ human rights chief, Volker Türk, has strongly criticized the United States for its military strikes on vessels allegedly carrying drugs in the Caribbean and Pacific. Türk labeled these lethal attacks as violations of international law, describing them as ‘extrajudicial killings.’ Since early September, more than 60 people have reportedly been killed in these strikes. Türk called the actions ‘unacceptable’ and urged Washington to immediately halt the operations and conduct independent, transparent investigations. The US has defended its actions, with President Donald Trump asserting that the strikes are necessary to curb drug trafficking into the country and that he has the legal authority to continue targeting boats in international waters. Türk acknowledged the challenges of combating drug trafficking but emphasized that the deadly strikes ‘find no justification in international law.’ He stressed that countering illicit drug trafficking is a law-enforcement matter, governed by strict limits on the use of lethal force under international human rights law. Türk noted that based on the limited information provided by US authorities, none of the individuals on the targeted boats appeared to pose an imminent threat to life. He called on the US to employ law enforcement methods such as intercepting boats, detaining suspects, and prosecuting individuals when necessary. The strikes, primarily occurring off the coast of South America in the Caribbean, have also extended to the Pacific, where at least 18 people were killed this week. The US has deployed troops, aircraft, and naval vessels to the region, including the world’s largest warship, the USS Gerald R Ford. The actions have sparked condemnation across the region, with experts questioning their legality. Members of the US Congress, from both parties, have raised concerns and challenged the president’s authority to order such strikes. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed disagreement with the attacks and called for meetings with the US ambassador, insisting on the respect of international treaties. The US actions have also heightened tensions with Colombia and Venezuela. The US has imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of failing to curb drug trafficking, while Trump has accused Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of leading a drug-trafficking organization. Venezuela’s attorney general accused the US of attempting to overthrow the government and seize its natural resources. The US does not recognize Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate leader following the widely disputed 2024 election.
US strikes on alleged drug boats violate law, UN human rights chief says
