Trump's militaristic impulses merge with failed wars on terror and drugs

Recently, the U.S. military carried out an operation against an alleged Venezuelan drug boat in the Caribbean. This incident comes at a time of growing concern regarding the actions and attitudes of high-ranking officials in the American government, particularly in how they perceive their authority. Many of these officials seem to believe they operate above the law when acting in accordance with the directives or desires of President Donald Trump. Former Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes, who served under President Barack Obama, warns that there is a troubling convergence happening. According to Rhodes, the rhetoric and strategies used in the prolonged war on drugs are beginning to blend with the aggressive language typically associated with the war on terror. He argues that this fusion, coupled with Trump's authoritarian tendencies, poses a significant threat to democratic principles and civil liberties. Adopting militaristic language and tactics in domestic and international contexts raises alarms about governance and accountability, signaling to the public that their leaders are prioritizing power over legality and ethical considerations. Rhodes emphasizes that this dereliction of duty is alarming and should evoke widespread fear and concern among the populace.