The NPR Politics Podcast Are The Strikes On Venezuelan Boats ‘War’ – And Do The Rules Of War Apply?
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Dec 3, 2025 The discussion centers on the recent U.S. military strikes against a Venezuelan drug boat, raising questions about the legality and moral implications of such actions. The hosts explore the mixed messages from the White House and the controversy surrounding follow-up strikes that may have harmed survivors. They analyze the 'war on drugs' narrative and scrutinize the decision-making process within the Pentagon. The conversation also touches on the broader strategy toward Venezuela and the political ramifications of these strikes.
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Sequence Of Strikes On A Single Boat
- The first strike on a suspected Venezuelan drug boat occurred Sept 2 and killed nine people initially.
- The military followed with additional strikes that apparently killed two survivors and sank the vessel.
Administration Acting As If At War
- The White House calls this a "war on drugs" and is deploying major naval forces around the Caribbean.
- Officials are acting like it is a war despite no formal declaration.
Departure From Coast Guard Norms
- Historically, the U.S. relied on the Coast Guard to interdict and arrest suspected drug smugglers at sea.
- The current approach of missile strikes marks a clear departure from that practice.
