By KONSTANTIN TOROPIN, Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — In a significant operation on Thursday, U.S. forces intercepted a vessel suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean, marking the first such action resulting in survivors since President Donald Trump intensified military efforts in the region this summer, sources reveal.
Two individuals, speaking on the condition of anonymity due to the lack of official confirmation from the Trump administration, confirmed the strike on Friday. The operation, believed to be at least the sixth since August, is notable for being the first to result in survivors who were subsequently retrieved by the U.S. military. The fate of these individuals remains uncertain.
This latest maneuver brings the casualty count from the Trump administration’s maritime operations in the Caribbean to a minimum of 28.
As the survivors await their fate, questions linger regarding their status—whether they will be treated as prisoners of war or face charges in a criminal court.
This is an unfolding situation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Originally Published: October 17, 2025 at 11:49 AM EDT
