Death toll from U.S. boat strikes climbs after survivors not found
The death toll from U.S. strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats has risen to at least 199, with no recent survivors found. The strikes, part of a campaign initiated by the Trump administration, have faced scrutiny over their legality and the treatment of survivors. Lawmakers and watchdogs are questioning the military's adherence to established targeting protocols amidst allegations of war crimes.
- ▪The death toll includes at least 22 individuals who survived initial strikes but later died at sea.
- ▪The U.S. Southern Command has been notifying the Coast Guard of survivors, but reports seem to be passed to nearby countries.
- ▪The Pentagon's inspector general plans to investigate the military's targeting framework used during these strikes.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
U.S. Death toll from U.S. boat strikes on alleged drug boats climbs after recent survivors not found May 29, 2026 / 6:52 AM EDT / CBS/AP Add CBS News on Google The death toll from the Trump administration's monthslong series of strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean has risen to at least 199 people after survivors of recent attacks were not found.The total includes at least 22 people who had survived an initial strike only to be hit again or die at sea during the campaign that began last September. That includes three people who survived two separate strikes this month, according to the U.S. military, including two people who survived a strike this week in the eastern Pacific.U.S. Southern Command says it notifies the U.S.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at CBS News — Politics.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from CBS News — Politics
