Since September, the United States has focused its military strategy and arsenal on the Western Hemisphere and seaborne cartel drug trade. As of Tuesday, the Ford and the three destroyers accompanying it had crossed from U.S. Southern Command and into the Atlantic Ocean waters that are overseen by U.S. European Command. Since the U.S. began striking the fast boats in September, it has hit 43 vessels, killing at least 133 people. Another 11 men who survived initial strikes are presumed dead. Monday’s strike, and one other on Feb. 13, were the first announced strikes in the Caribbean since November.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 18, 2026 00:05 UTC