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Oct 5, 2026

Pentagon expands military operations against drug cartels in South America under Hegseth

The U.S. military is expanding its campaign against drug cartels in South America, conducting maritime strikes that have destroyed alleged drug boats and refueling vessels. The operations, which have been ongoing for over a year under Defense Secretary Hegseth, have resulted in at least 235 deaths from 70 strikes across the region.

Oct 5, 2026·5 sources
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Top claims

  • ▪Former acting Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator Derek Maltz defended the aggressive tactics, arguing that they are necessary to combat terrorists who are destroying the country's future.
  • ▪Approximately 50 United States service members and law enforcement personnel embedded with Ecuadorian police to conduct raids against alleged drug traffickers in Ecuador in late September 2026.
  • ▪The United States military is expanding its counter-cartel operations in South America, shifting from maritime boat strikes to planned land strikes and increased regional cooperation.

Topics

Defense policyDrug traffickingU.S. military operations (Iran)Wars & conflicts

Related entities

United States