Khaberni - Politico reported that a new poll conducted by Reuters and "Ipsos" today, Friday, uncovered that a majority of adults in the United States oppose the U.S. military resorting to killing suspected drug traffickers without trial during military operations executed by President Donald Trump's administration in recent months in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.
The newspaper added that the poll, which included 1200 American adults between November 7 and 12, highlights "the growing public concern over the use of military force outside the rule of law," at a time when Washington is facing local and international criticism over these operations.
Public opposition to extrajudicial killings was clear, Politico explained, indicating that 51% of American adults oppose the U.S. military killing suspected drug traffickers without judicial intervention or court permission, while only 29% support this policy, and the rest of the survey participants did not specify their position.
The newspaper further noted that the political divide was sharp, with 58% of Republicans supporting the direct military approach, compared to only 8% of Democrats.
Politico pointed out that the White House did not immediately comment on Axios's request regarding the survey.
Extrajudicial killings were conducted by the Trump administration over several months targeting dozens suspected of drug terrorism in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, Politico said.
The newspaper added: The strikes, conducted without Congressional authorization, "drew condemnation from both Democrat and Republican legislators, as well as objections from Latin American leaders."
According to the newspaper, the number of those killed reached at least 80 people in 20 drone strikes since the beginning of September.
Politico also mentioned that the "Washington Post" reported that Trump is considering expanding the scope of the strikes to include ground targets, a move that could heighten regional tensions.
Pressure on Venezuela and the display of force were reportedly synchronized with a significant military buildup in the Caribbean region, aimed at exerting more pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, the newspaper highlighted.
The former National Security Advisor, John Bolton wrote in the "Washington Post," saying: "Blowing up boats loaded with drugs and killing their crews may please some of our leaders, but it will not destabilize Maduro," the paper added.
Politico confirmed that the survey also revealed varied American stances towards Venezuela, where 46% of the participants supported labeling drug cartels as "foreign terrorist organizations" allowing military intervention, while only 21% supported forcibly isolating Maduro.
Maduro calls for peace and stated at a massive gathering in Caracas on Thursday, Politico reported, telling CNN:
"Yes, peace. Yes, peace... We unite for the peace of the continent, no endless wars, no unjust wars. No more Libya, no more Afghanistan."
Politico added that Maduro’s statements were in response to inquiries about the possibility of "expanding American operations" in the region.
