President Donald Trump announced a “second” military strike against an alleged drug-trafficking boat linked to Venezuela, resulting in three deaths.

“The U.S. Military conducted a SECOND Kinetic Strike against positively identified, extraordinarily violent drug trafficking cartels and narcoterrorists in the SOUTHCOM area of responsibility,” Trump stated. “The Strike occurred while these confirmed narcoterrorists from Venezuela were in International Waters transporting illegal narcotics (A DEADLY WEAPON POISONING AMERICANS!) headed to the U.S.”

Trump emphasized the threat posed by drug cartels, declaring, “These extremely violent drug trafficking cartels POSE A THREAT to U.S. National Security, Foreign Policy, and vital U.S. Interests. The Strike resulted in 3 male terrorists killed in action. No U.S. Forces were harmed in this Strike.” He warned, “IF YOU ARE TRANSPORTING DRUGS THAT CAN KILL AMERICANS, WE ARE HUNTING YOU!”

The strike follows a similar operation earlier this month, which drew criticism from lawmakers across parties over its legality. Democrats urged the White House to provide legal justification, while Republican Sen. Rand Paul condemned the attack and criticized Vice President JD Vance for supporting it.

Trump defended the action, claiming evidence of narcotics on the vessel: “We have proof. All you have to do is look at the cargo that was, like, it’s spattered all over the ocean. Big bags of cocaine and fentanyl all over the place.” He added, “The military has been amazing,” citing careful surveillance to avoid backlash.

Venezuela’s interior minister denied claims that the crew was linked to drug trafficking groups like Tren de Aragua, asserting none of the individuals were affiliated with such organizations. A source familiar with the matter reported the boat had turned toward shore before the strike, per The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.

Eight Navy ships are currently deployed in the region, with seven operating in the Caribbean and one in the Pacific.