The US military has paused its deadly strikes against alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, with the last strike occurring on June 21. The campaign, known as Operation Southern Spear, has destroyed at least 67 vessels and killed at least 221 people since it began in September 2025.

Effectiveness of the Campaign

Law enforcement officials and experts are uncertain about the lasting impact of the strikes, citing the resiliency and adaptability of drug smuggling networks. The US Southern Command, which oversees the operation, says the mission is to detect, disrupt, and dismantle cartels labeled as terrorist organizations.

However, experts argue that the boat strikes are not an effective way to combat the drug trade, as cartels can easily adapt and find new routes. The amount of sea-borne cocaine seized by the Coast Guard has declined in both the eastern Pacific and Caribbean, but it is unclear whether this is due to the strikes or other factors.

Concerns and Criticisms

Some experts have expressed concerns that the strikes are not targeting the root of the problem, but rather low-level associates. The head of US Southern Command, Marine Corps Gen. Francis Donovan, has acknowledged the limitations of the boat strikes, saying they are not the answer to combating the drug trade.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.