France’s foreign minister has criticized the United States for its recent military actions in the Caribbean, stating that the deadly boat strikes conducted by the U.S. violate international law. The remarks were made by Jean-Noël Barrot during the G7 summit of foreign ministers in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. The U.S. military has conducted 19 strikes against suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean and off the Pacific coasts of Latin America, resulting in the deaths of at least 76 individuals. These operations have been linked to accusations against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of being involved in drug trafficking. France expressed concern over these military activities, emphasizing its interest in preventing any escalation that could affect its overseas territories where a significant number of French citizens reside.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, denied any raised concerns during the G7 meetings regarding the operations near Venezuela. Reports also emerged that Britain had suspended intelligence sharing with the U.S. from its Caribbean assets due to apprehensions surrounding the boat strikes. In response, the U.S. emphasized its strong partnership with the United Kingdom and dismissed the alleged suspension of intelligence sharing as a “false story.”
Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand addressed questions regarding Canada’s involvement in supplying intelligence to the U.S., stating that the U.S. is utilizing its own intelligence resources. Canada’s cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard under Operation Caribe focuses on intercepting drugs bound for North American shores, with no direct involvement in the U.S. strikes on Venezuelan vessels. The lack of international support for the U.S.’ legal stance on the matter was highlighted, with concerns raised about the use of lethal force in the region.
Criticism of the U.S. actions extended to the political realm, with California Governor Gavin Newsom condemning the military strikes on suspected drug vessels, questioning the adherence to due process and the rule of law. The U.S.’ historical use of lethal force in drug interdiction efforts was also brought into focus, with concerns raised about the escalating tensions in the region. The Washington Post editorial board emphasized the risks of alienating allies over such actions and urged for a reevaluation of the approach taken by the U.S. in the Caribbean.
