U.S. Defends Caribbean Strikes Amid Legal Questions

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have publicly defended two controversial military strikes on a suspected drug boat in Caribbean waters. The officials addressed the incident during a cabinet meeting this week. The second strike is now under scrutiny. Secretary Hegseth stated the "fog of war" prevented crews from seeing potential survivors before attacking. Reports suggest two people may have been killed. Legal experts note the action could violate international law, which requires distinguishing between combatants and civilians. The U.S. military has not confirmed the identities of those on the boat. The incident occurs amid rising regional tensions, particularly with Venezuela. The United States frames its increased naval activity as part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking.