Washington, DC, June 1, 2026 – The United States has now reportedly killed at least 205 civilians in unlawful strikes against vessels in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) condemns these extrajudicial killings, which occur against civilian drug trafficking suspects outside any recognized armed conflict and may amount to crimes against humanity, according to legal experts. 

“It is unconscionable that these strikes have now taken the lives of over two hundred civilians with impunity,” said Annie Shiel, CIVIC’s US Director. “We are witnessing an unacceptable normalization of this lawless campaign, and with it the Trump administration’s claim that it can execute anyone accused of a crime without any due process.” 

The identities of most victims remain unknown, and there is no evidence that they posed any imminent threat to individuals or to the United States. 

The impacts of the US vessel strikes are being felt in communities across Latin America and the Caribbean, where families await the return of their loved ones with few or no answers or access to recourse. Coastal residents have witnessed human remains washing ashore, and entire communities have reportedly been forced to abandon fishing – their livelihood – for fear of attacks.  

“Congress must put an end to these murders, including by refusing to fund them, and ensure accountability for civilian victims and survivors,” said Shiel. “All States must also end any assistance that could contribute to these unlawful killings or risk incurring legal responsibility under international law.”  

In April, over 120 organizations issued a call to all States to end support for US extrajudicial killings in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. As the United States expands its campaign, States must decline to cooperate or contribute to violations of international human rights law. 

For additional information or media inquiries, please contact:

• CIVIC’s Global Media Team: [email protected]

Spokespersons available for interviews in English, Spanish, French, and Arabic.