U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently outlined a more defined strategy for addressing drug trafficking in Latin American waters. He emphasized that the Trump administration is working closely with allied nations, aligning with their legal frameworks, while still maintaining the option to take military action if necessary. This comes after a year of U.S. military strikes targeting what the administration calls “narco-terrorists” operating in international waters. On Wednesday, the U.S. Southern Command announced another such strike in the Caribbean Sea, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals. This brings the total number of people killed in these boat strikes to at least 230 across 69 operations. Despite the use of force, the Trump administration has shifted its focus toward fostering international cooperation. The U.S. is now working to establish agreements with countries like Colombia and Ecuador for joint operations within their territorial waters, ensuring compliance with local laws. “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 said during a visit to Ecuador's capital, Quito. He noted that these efforts are effectively disrupting drug trafficking routes, stating, “These routes are being disrupted. These routes are being ended.” The recent U.S. actions in Latin American waters differ from the initial strikes launched in September 2025. In recent operations, individuals found on floating refueling stations suspected of supporting drug trafficking have been detained and handed over to Ecuadorian authorities before the U.S. military destroys the vessels. This marks a change from earlier strikes, where the administration targeted alleged “narco-terrorists” without providing evidence for their claims. Rubio’s remarks were made during a three-nation tour of South America aimed at strengthening security ties with leaders who have aligned with Donald Trump. The administration’s evolving approach reflects a blend of military action and diplomatic engagement, as it seeks to address the complex issue of drug trafficking in the region.