US Launches Operation Southern Spear to Target Drug Trafficking in the Caribbean

The United States has launched a stronger maritime campaign called Operation Southern Spear to fight suspected drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea. This new operation expands US military surveillance and strike actions to block illegal drug routes that could threaten US public health and national security.

US Launches Operation Southern Spear to Target Drug Trafficking in the Caribbean

Recent Strike in the Caribbean

A Pentagon official confirmed that US forces recently struck a vessel believed to be involved in drug trafficking. The incident killed four people, adding to a series of more than 20 strikes since September.
So far, 21 vessels have been destroyed and over 80 people killed in international waters during these actions.

Goals of Operation Southern Spear

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth explained that the mission is designed to dismantle “narco-terrorist networks” operating in the region.
Key objectives include:

• Blocking drug routes into the United States
• Protecting American communities from dangerous drug flows
• Strengthening military control in the Caribbean

The operation also uses major naval assets such as the USS Gerald R. Ford, one of the most advanced aircraft carriers.

Possible Expansion and Concerns

Reports suggest the US may expand the operation to include land-based targets in Venezuela. Officials have reviewed options for possible strikes, but no final decision has been made.
This raises questions about:

• Regional geopolitical tensions
• International law and legality of cross-border strikes

Exam-Oriented Notes

• The US launched Operation Southern Spear against drug trafficking in the Caribbean.
• US forces have carried out at least 20 maritime strikes since September.
• 21 vessels have been destroyed and 80+ people killed in international waters.
• Operation uses major US Navy assets including USS Gerald R. Ford.
• Overseen partly by US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).
• Senior officials are considering possible expansion into Venezuela.

Also Read

Question & Answer

Q1. What is the name of the new US maritime anti-drug operation in the Caribbean?
(a) Operation Desert Shield
(b) Operation Caribbean Guard
(c) Operation Southern Spear
(d) Operation Blue Freedom
Answer: Operation Southern Spear

Q2. Which US naval asset is deployed under Operation Southern Spear?
(a) USS Nimitz
(b) USS Gerald R. Ford
(c) USS Abraham Lincoln
(d) USS Enterprise
Answer: USS Gerald R. Ford

Q3. How many maritime strikes have US forces conducted since September?
(a) At least 10
(b) At least 15
(c) At least 20
(d) Over 50
Answer: At least 20

Q4. Which command is partly responsible for overseeing this operation?
(a) Central Command
(b) Indo-Pacific Command
(c) Southern Command
(d) Africa Command
Answer: Southern Command

Q5. Reports suggest possible future strike options may include targets in which country?
(a) Cuba
(b) Jamaica
(c) Venezuela
(d) Colombia
Answer: Venezuela

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