Washington: US President Donald Trump announced that illegal drugs entering the United States by sea have decreased by 94% and unveiled plans to initiate similar operations on land. Speaking at the State Department Kennedy Center honors medal presentation dinner, Trump expressed curiosity about the remaining 6% of drug traffickers, humorously noting their bravery in continuing such attempts.

According to Anadolu Agency - English, Trump is set to extend these efforts to land, claiming comprehensive knowledge of drug trafficking routes and networks. He likened drug trafficking to a "terrible war," asserting that 300,000 fatalities resulted from illegal drugs over the past year, and pledged to prevent further loss.

The US military has conducted at least 22 strikes in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean against boats suspected of carrying narcotics since September, resulting in 87 fatalities. However, these actions have faced scrutiny from Congress regarding their effectiveness and legality, as no definitive evidence of drug transport was presented, and those on board were denied the opportunity to prove their innocence.

Earlier that day, Trump presented gold medallions to distinguished individuals, including actor Sylvester Stallone, rock band Kiss, singer Gloria Gaynor, actor Michael Crawford, and musician George Strait, at the Kennedy Center Honors Medallion Ceremony hosted by the State Department. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio commended the honorees for their contributions, emphasizing the global influence of American culture as a significant export.

The event highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy, with Rubio noting that for many, American entertainment serves as an introduction to the nation. Trump, having controversially restructured the Kennedy Center's board of trustees earlier this year, personally selected many of this year's honorees, aligning them with his preferences.