An anonymous Department of Defense employee warns that recent United States military strikes against alleged drug-smuggling boats, ordered by President Donald Trump, set a dangerous legal precedent. The administration has designated Latin American cartels as terrorist organizations and claimed self-defense as justification for at least 13 strikes, resulting in dozens of deaths. Legal experts argue these actions lack both domestic and international legal authority, and critics from across the political spectrum have voiced concerns. The op-ed cautions that treating drug smuggling as an armed conflict could enable adversaries like China to justify similar military actions, potentially threatening the sovereignty of places like Taiwan. The author urges United States service members and leaders to consider the long-term consequences of these actions, which may ultimately undermine American interests and global standing.