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On Sunday, President Trump told a large gathering of sailors that American military units had struck another boat illegally carrying drugs off the coast of Venezuela the previous evening. The president delivered these remarks at a ceremony celebrating the US navy’s two hundred and fiftieth birthday held at the Norfolk naval base located in Virginia.

Trump additionally stated asserting that the United States will also start focusing on narcotics smuggling taking place on land. This remained certain whether Trump was referring to an operation revealed last Friday from defense secretary Pete Hegseth.

Navy's Role in Anti-Narcotics Missions

In his speech, the president praised naval forces for supporting the mission to eliminate cartel terrorists from the seas. He claimed, “There are no boats in the water anymore. You can’t find them”.

The navy has additionally been utilized to join a military engagement against drug cartels, resulting in 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,” the president warned.

Global Response and Legal Issues

The United Nations has censured the US strikes—actions that the US defends by claiming they counter narco-terrorist members belonging to Tren de Aragua, classified as a terrorist entity, on the high seas—labeling them extrajudicial executions.

Last month, United Nations experts declared, “Governments are not permitted under international law to summarily execute suspected drug traffickers”. They added, “Criminal activities should be disrupted, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the rule of law, including through international cooperation”.

Naval Events During Government Shutdown

The naval anniversary events take place during a shutdown of the federal government which has resulted in some armed forces members working unpaid. The president has accused Democrats for causing the government closure , attempting “to ruin the splendid commemoration of the Navy's anniversary”.

Friday evening, Trump posted on his social media site, “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 Strength and Command Changes

The president has pledged to restore the navy’s vessel construction capability following warnings indicating the service risks forfeiting its position as the world’s dominant naval power.

America's naval fleet stands at its smallest size since before the second world war, while government-supported China's shipbuilding yards exceed the output of US shipyards.

Navy secretary Phelan, who was confirmed in March, has identified “urgency” as a missing element in warship production , directed expedited manufacturing for the Columbia- and Virginia-class submarine programs.

The naval festivities come after a period of turmoil at the Pentagon as Hegseth restructures the armed forces' top leadership across various service branches.

New Policies and Preparation Suggestions

In a controversial speech to senior officers recently, the defense secretary announced a termination of “woke” culture , introduced new directives that include uniform physical standards in fitness tests.

“The sole objective of the reestablished Department of War is combat readiness, preparing for conflict and ensuring victory, steadfast and unwavering in this endeavor not because we desire war—nobody here does—but due to our dedication to peace,” Hegseth affirmed.

During the gathering, the president proposed using US cities for military exercises for the armed forces and discussed needing military might to address what he called an internal invasion.