US Plans Ground Strikes Against Drug Cartels in Latin America

The United States is reportedly planning ground operations targeting drug cartels in Latin America, a significant escalation of its anti-narcotics efforts in the region. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed these plans while visiting Panama early Friday, according to news agency AFP.

This announcement follows a series of maritime strikes initiated by the U.S. last fall. These operations have involved attacks on vessels suspected of drug trafficking in both the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. Reports indicate that these strikes have led to a substantial number of fatalities, with at least 215 people killed.

Despite the U.S. government's actions, the maritime operations have drawn criticism and are considered illegal by some observers. The planned ground operations are likely to face similar scrutiny regarding international law and sovereignty.

The news comes as the U.S. continues its long-standing fight against drug cartels, which have a significant impact on both Latin America and the United States. Further details on the scope and nature of the proposed ground operations have yet to be released.