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On Sunday, President Trump told thousands of naval personnel stating that US forces targeted another boat illegally transporting narcotics near the shoreline of the South American nation on Saturday night. He made this statement during an event celebrating the American navy's 250th anniversary at Naval Station Norfolk located in Virginia.

Trump additionally declared asserting that America will now begin addressing drug trafficking taking place overland. This was not immediately clear if Trump was referring to an operation revealed last Friday by Pentagon chief Secretary Hegseth.

Navy's Involvement in Anti-Narcotics Missions

In the address, Trump praised the navy their support of the mission to eliminate cartel terrorists from the seas. Trump asserted, “There are no boats in the water anymore. You can’t find them”.

US naval forces has also been deployed to join a military engagement with drug cartels, leading to four strikes in the Caribbean on alleged speedboats engaged in narcotics smuggling.

“Should drug smugglers cease arriving by sea, we must turn our attention to land routes, as they will be compelled to travel overland. Let me assure you, that will not end favorably for them,” Trump stated.

International Reaction and Legal Issues

UN officials have condemned the US strikes—actions that Washington defends by claiming they target “narco-terrorist” members belonging to Tren de Aragua, designated a foreign terrorist organization, in international waters—labeling them extrajudicial executions.

Last month, United Nations experts declared, “International law does not allow governments to simply murder alleged drug traffickers”. The UN added, “Criminal activities should be disrupted, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the rule of law, including through international cooperation”.

Naval Events Amid Federal Closure

The navy celebrations take place during a shutdown of the US government which has resulted in some armed forces members working without pay. Trump blamed opposition Democrats of enabling the government closure and trying “to destroy this wonderful celebration of the US Navy’s Birthday”.

Friday evening, Trump posted on social media, “In my view, ‘THE SHOW MUST GO ON!’ This event will be the grandest in Navy history. Numerous courageous active-duty members and military families will participate, and I eagerly anticipate sharing this unique occasion with them”.

Restoring Maritime Capacity and Leadership Changes

The president has pledged to restore the naval vessel construction capability following warnings that the service risks forfeiting its position as the globe's dominant maritime force.

The US fleet is at its smallest size from before the second world war, whereas state-subsidized Chinese shipyards exceed the output of American yards.

Secretary of the Navy Phelan, who was confirmed this spring, noted immediate action as a missing element in naval shipbuilding and ordered an accelerated production schedule for the Columbia- and Virginia-class submarine programs.

The naval festivities come after months of upheaval at the Pentagon while Hegseth rearranges the military’s senior command of the army, navy, air force and coast guard.

Recent Policies and Preparation Suggestions

During a contentious address to military leaders recently, the defense secretary announced a termination of “woke” culture , unveiled new directives that include uniform physical standards for physical fitness.

“The only mission of the newly restored Department of War is this: warfighting, preparing for war and preparing to win, unrelenting and uncompromising in that pursuit not because we want war, no one here wants war, but it’s because we love peace,” the secretary affirmed.

During the gathering, Trump proposed utilizing US cities as training grounds for troops , spoke of needing armed strength to address what he termed the “invasion from within”.