Tensions in the Caribbean

Sources: The boat that was shot at was not heading for the US

The alleged “drug boat” that was attacked in a double attack in the Caribbean on September 2 was not heading for the US, but was supposed to meet another larger ship heading for Suriname. Admiral Frank Bradley is said to have told this in questioning, two sources told CNN.

According to the sources, who have insight into Bradley’s congressional hearings, the boat was on its way to transfer drugs to the larger ship when it was attacked. However, the US military is said to have been unable to locate the larger ship.

The White House has justified the attacks on alleged drug smugglers in the Caribbean and the Pacific by saying that they are heading for the US – and therefore pose a threat to American citizens.

According to the sources, Bradley is said to have said that there was still a possibility that the alleged drug cargo would eventually reach the US, and that an attack on the smaller boat was therefore justified.

Tensions in the Caribbean – the issue

• Since September, the US has carried out more than 20 deadly attacks on boats allegedly smuggling drugs in the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans.
• At least 85 people have been killed in the attacks, which were carried out in international waters in the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans, according to US authorities and international news agencies.
• US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has been heavily criticized and accused of war crimes after ordering a second attack on survivors on a boat on September 2. The White House confirmed the double attack but maintains that it was legal.
• Venezuela has condemned the US military presence and attacks, while Colombia and the UK have reportedly suspended intelligence cooperation with the US in protest at the attacks.
• Tensions have increased further after Donald Trump declared Venezuela’s airspace closed and gave President Nicolás Maduro a deadline to leave the country, leading to international warnings of armed conflict.