Trump's Bold Approach: U.S. Declares Armed Conflict with Drug Cartels

In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has announced that the United States is now in 'a non-international armed conflict' with drug cartels. This proclamation comes as part of a document sent to Congress, outlining the legal justification for deadly U.S. strikes against suspect drug trafficking boats near Venezuela.

The document, reviewed by Reuters, has left lawmakers and legal experts questioning its implications. Pentagon's top attorney briefed lawmakers as the U.S. military engages in aggressive actions, blowing up at least three suspected drug vessels and resulting in 17 deaths this past month. Critics argue these moves push the boundaries of Trump's presidential authority.

The legal basis for such actions remains unclear as the Trump administration intends to consider further strikes. Additionally, the administration has reclassified these cartels as non-state armed groups, which many argue doesn't widen the scope of military action under current laws.