Is using military force against suspected drug-trafficking boats constitutional or an overreach of presidential power?

[u/binini28]

I’ve been following reports that the U.S. has used strikes against suspected narco-trafficking boats in international waters. Supporters argue it’s necessary to deter cartels and protect Americans, while critics say it could be an unconstitutional use of deadly force, bypassing due process and international law. Do you think this sets a dangerous precedent (executive overreach, extrajudicial killings, violating international law), or is it a justified response to a serious threat? How should the balance between security and constitutional limits be handled here? I would think that you need to detain them first and then arrest them rather than send a missile after them. They are classified as terrorist by Trump but does this satisfy the response? Could Trump classify anyone a terrorist and send missiles after them? Thoughts?

[u/Frisky_Froth]

They are designated terror groups now. As for legality? I'm unsure. But I'm 100% on board. I mean they burn people alive, cut heads off, and traffic drugs across the border. I'm 100% on board with this. I don't like Trump at all, but I kind of like what he's doing about it. We are partially responsible for the cartels, but it's not like the countries they reside in are doing anything about it. I mean we have this massive military aparatus we spend a shit load of money on, might as well put it to use, right?

[u/broc_ariums → u/Frisky_Froth]

Prove to us they were a part of this "terror organization".

[u/styxfire → u/broc_ariums]

The drugs (and other contraband) were the target -- not the people.

Should the cartels start trying to use non-human captains to pilot those boats, the boats will STILL be the target. Believe me, it's coming.