A US strike on a suspected drug boat off Costa Rica leaves 2 dead, 1 critically hurt - AP News

U.S. forces conducted a strike on a suspected drug smuggling vessel off the coast of Costa Rica, resulting in two deaths and one critically wounded person. The operation reflects ongoing U.S. involvement in counter-narcotics efforts in Central America, where drug trafficking organizations use maritime routes to move contraband toward North America. Such strikes are typically carried out in coordination with regional partners as part of broader Drug Enforcement Administration and Coast Guard operations targeting trafficking networks. The incident underscores the risks and collateral consequences of military-style interdiction operations in international waters where verification of cargo and crew can be difficult. The outcome may prompt questions about rules of engagement and oversight procedures governing such operations in third-party territorial waters.