US Secretary of State Announces New Strategy to Combat Drug Trafficking in Latin America > 월드뉴스

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined a new approach to combat drug trafficking in Latin American waters, emphasizing collaboration with allied nations while maintaining military action if necessary. This announcement follows a year of unilateral strikes by the US against what it terms "narco-terrorists" operating in international waters.

On Wednesday, US Southern Command confirmed a recent strike in the Caribbean Sea that resulted in the deaths of three individuals, raising the total number of fatalities from US military strikes to at least 230 across 69 operations. Rubio highlighted the importance of forming agreements with countries like Colombia and Ecuador to conduct joint operations that comply with local laws.

During a visit to Quito, Ecuador, Rubio stated, “I think it’s an incredible advance for the first time to have countries that are willing to participate in these efforts in their territorial waters.” He noted that the operations are determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the threat level and location of the vessels involved.

The US strategy marks a shift from earlier tactics that began in September 2025, where alleged drug-trafficking boats were targeted without extensive evidence provided by the Trump administration. The new approach includes the removal of individuals from floating refueling stations linked to drug trafficking, which are then handed over to Ecuadorian authorities prior to the destruction of the vessels. Rubio's comments were made during a tour aimed at strengthening security cooperation with conservative leaders in South America who align with Trump’s policies.