The U.S. Secretary of State responded to criticisms from some European allies regarding the legality of U.S. attacks in the Caribbean, asserting that Europeans have no right to dictate how the U.S. defends its national security. This statement came during a G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Canada, which focused on Ukraine and Gaza.

Concerns had been raised by several countries about U.S. attacks on vessels near Venezuela suspected of drug trafficking. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that these attacks violate international law and create worries for French territories in the region. So far, the U.S. military has conducted at least 19 attacks in the Caribbean against suspected drug-smuggling boats, resulting in the deaths of at least 76 individuals.

Before leaving Canada, the U.S. Secretary remarked that no participating countries in the G7 discussed these operations with him. However, he defended targeting drug terrorists, emphasizing that drugs are transported from Venezuela to Europe, and Europeans should appreciate U.S. efforts in combating this issue.

Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, indicated to Reuters that such attacks could only be justified in self-defense or with United Nations Security Council authorization. In response, Marco Rubio stated that he does not believe the EU has the right to define international law or dictate how the U.S. should defend its national security.