U.S. Military Members Seek Legal Counsel Over Anti-Drug Maritime Operations

U.S. military personnel are seeking guidance from external organizations regarding potential legal implications of their involvement in the Trump administration's operations targeting suspected drug boats. These operations have resulted in the destruction of over 20 vessels and the deaths of more than 80 individuals in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific over the past three months.

Legal Perspectives

The administration has stated that these strikes are legal, conducted under the laws of war, and authorized by President Trump's Article II powers as commander-in-chief and in self-defense. Conversely, various legal experts, including former military lawyers, contend that the strikes against alleged civilian narcotraffickers are unlawful and may constitute murder. This divergence in legal interpretations has led to concerns among some U.S. military members regarding potential personal legal repercussions.

Support from External Groups

Organizations such as the GI Rights Hotline, which provides confidential counseling to military personnel, and the Orders Project, a non-partisan group advising on lawful and unlawful orders, have reported increased inquiries from service members.

Steve Woolford, a counselor with Quaker House (part of the GI Rights Hotline), confirmed that his organization has received calls from service members expressing concerns about the legality of their participation and potential accountability. These callers have also articulated moral objections to actions perceived as outside the laws of war. Woolford indicated that two service members have been connected with legal counsel through his organization.

Frank Rosenblatt, a former military lawyer with the Orders Project, reported a significant increase in calls over the last three months. Callers include staff officers with expertise in legal, intelligence, or targeting matters. Rosenblatt stated that some career officers who express "non-concurrence" regarding operations face pressure from higher-ranking officials. The Orders Project advises service members on documenting pressure and seeking clarification, without issuing definitive legal rulings on specific orders. The group has also received calls from at least one drone pilot.

Nature of Concerns

Service members reaching out to these groups are generally involved in the operational planning aspects rather than direct execution of the strikes. The inquiries reflect a level of uncertainty among some personnel regarding the legitimacy of their assigned tasks. Concerns have also been voiced about the possibility that future accountability for service members could be influenced by political considerations rather than solely legal principles.