Legal Controversy Surrounds U.S. Military Strikes Against Drug Boats

Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump’s 60-day window for military strikes against alleged drug traffickers in Latin America has closed, raising legal questions about ongoing operations. The War Powers Resolution mandates that the president must seek congressional approval to continue military actions after 60 days. As of November 3, 2025, the White House indicated that these military actions would continue without such approval.

The U.S. military has conducted a total of 15 strikes since September 2, 2025, reportedly killing 65 people and leaving three survivors. This has led to assertions from some lawmakers and legal experts that the administration’s actions may constitute an abuse of power. The Pentagon has maintained that these operations, primarily conducted via unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), do not qualify as ‘hostilities’ under the War Powers Resolution.

Former State Department counsel Brian Finacune described the administration’s interpretation as a power grab, warning that Congress must reject this “strained legal interpretation.” Senator Mark Warner echoed these concerns, urging the administration to provide clear evidence and justifications for its military actions.

Despite the mounting death toll and lack of transparency, Republican leaders have largely supported the president’s approach. House Speaker Mike Johnson claimed that the administration has briefed key lawmakers and posited that it possesses reliable intelligence about the operations.

Meanwhile, calls for accountability continue to arise, with critics emphasizing the administration’s silence regarding the evidence for its claims of legitimate threats posed by the targeted vessels. Regional tensions are escalating, particularly in light of reported preparations for expanded military operations in Venezuela and potential ground actions in Mexico against drug cartels.

As Congress and international observers watch closely, the legal and ethical implications of the Trump administration’s military strategy remain at the forefront of national discourse.