The U.S. military conducted a strike on a Venezuelan vessel in international waters on Monday, destroying the boat and killing three individuals aboard, as President Donald Trump announced the action against what he described as a drug-trafficking operation, prompting a sharp rebuke from Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Trump, in a Truth Social post, stated the strike targeted "violent drug trafficking cartels and narcoterrorists," claiming it was the second such operation and part of efforts to curb threats to U.S. national security. He shared a video showing the vessel exploding and burning, asserting that cargo including cocaine and fentanyl was scattered across the ocean. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said the U.S. had "recorded proof" of the boat's illicit purpose and warned that maritime trafficking had decreased but land routes remain a concern. He added that the military would soon address cartels operating overland.

The incident follows a September 2 strike that killed 11 people on another alleged drug boat, drawing criticism from legal experts who questioned its compliance with international human rights and maritime law. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the actions on Fox News, stating there was "100% fidelity and certainty" the vessels were involved in trafficking to the U.S. Rubio called Maduro a "direct threat" due to alleged cartel ties, with the State Department offering a $50 million reward for information leading to his capture.

Venezuela's Foreign Ministry condemned the attack as "illegal and hostile aggression," with Maduro vowing to defend national sovereignty. He accused Rubio of being the "lord of death and war" and stated relations with the U.S. were now "completely broken." Maduro denied drug involvement and claimed the U.S. seeks regime change, urging citizens to join the militia. On Saturday, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil reported U.S. forces boarded a fishing boat for eight hours, calling it an escalation tactic. Venezuela responded to the first strike by flying F-16 jets over a U.S. Navy destroyer, prompting Trump to warn of shoot-downs if endangered.

The strikes coincide with U.S. warship deployments to the southern Caribbean for counter-narcotics, amid non-recognition of Maduro's July 2024 re-election, which the U.S. and allies say was fraudulent. Maduro's government alleges the U.S. uses the drug narrative to justify intervention. Experts note the actions may violate rules of engagement in international waters, where lethal force requires imminent threats.