The US takes its anti-narcotics war onto Venezuelan soil with a drone strike against the ELN

The U.S. conducted a drone strike in Venezuela targeting the ELN guerrilla group, resulting in at least 20 deaths. This operation, supported by U.S. intelligence, marks a significant escalation in the U.S. anti-narcotics strategy in Latin America. Venezuelan officials have not confirmed the incident, but local reports indicate the strike targeted a cocaine distribution center. The ELN has been increasingly active in Venezuela, with thousands of fighters reportedly operating in border regions. The strike follows previous U.S. military actions in the area and highlights ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Venezuelan authorities regarding drug trafficking and guerrilla activity.