Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, outlined a new approach to combating drug trafficking in Latin American waters, stating the Trump administration is now focused on working with allied countries and aligning with their laws, according to The Guardian. He emphasized that the military would still “still blow up ships if need be” in cases of immediate threat.

Shift in Strategy After Unilateral Strikes

The public acknowledgment of a strategic shift follows a year of unilateral deadly strikes by Washington against those it refers to as “narco-terrorists” operating in international waters. Late Wednesday, US Southern Command announced the latest such strike in the Caribbean Sea, which killed three people; this brought the total number of deaths from boat strikes by the US military to at least 230 in 69 strikes.

Despite the continued use of lethal force when necessary, the Trump administration is focused on building agreements for joint operations with allied countries in the region, including Colombia and Ecuador, that comply with their laws in their territorial waters.

Rubio Praises Cooperation with Latin American Nations

“I think it’s an incredible advance for the first time to have countries that are willing to participate in these efforts in their territorial waters,” Rubio told reporters during a trip to Quito, the capital of Ecuador. “The important point is that these routes are being disrupted; these routes are being ended,” he added.

Rubio explained that each decision regarding a strike or operation is made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the threat level and the location of the boat. This approach differs from the initial strikes in September 2025, where alleged drug-trafficking boats were targeted without the same level of international collaboration.

Recent US interdictions in Latin American waters involve removing people onboard floating refueling stations believed to be supporting drug trafficking and transferring them to Ecuadorian authorities. Afterward, the US military destroys the vessels.

Controversy Over Lack of Evidence in Strikes

The shift in strategy follows a series of strikes on boats in the past year, targeting individuals the Trump administration accused of being “narco-terrorists” without providing concrete evidence. These actions have drawn criticism from human rights groups and legal experts who question the transparency and legality of the operations.

Rubio’s remarks were made during a three-country tour of South America aimed at strengthening security cooperation with conservative leaders in the region who have shown support for Donald Trump. The administration is seeking to consolidate partnerships with governments that align with its broader objectives in the region.