Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Mexico Denounces U.S. Strikes on Suspected Drug-Smuggling Vessels


(MENAFN) Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday denounced recent U.S. military strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking in international waters, confirming that Mexico has initiated a rescue operation for one survivor.

During her daily press briefing at the National Palace in Mexico City, Sheinbaum said the operation was led by the Mexican Navy “on humanitarian grounds and in accordance with international treaties.”

“We do not agree with these attacks,” Sheinbaum stated, adding that she has directed the Foreign Ministry and the Navy to begin talks with U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson to clarify the incidents and ensure adherence to international law.

According to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the United States carried out three strikes on Monday targeting four suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Eastern Pacific, killing 14 “narco-terrorists” and leaving one survivor.

The Mexican Navy later confirmed it had launched a maritime search and rescue mission southwest of the port of Acapulco in Guerrero state, deploying a long-range patrol ship and a maritime patrol aircraft.

“Based on the subsequent statement by the U.S. Secretary of Defense, the survivor is now believed to be a crew member of one of the vessels targeted in the operation,” the Navy said on social media.

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