Bipartisan Scrutiny for U.S. Military Strikes in the Caribbean

Tue Dec 02 2025 20:24:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Following a controversial military operation, the Pentagon clarifies its stance on strikes against suspected drug trafficking boats, as lawmakers call for a deeper investigation.

The White House defended a recent military operation in the Caribbean after bipartisan criticism from lawmakers regarding a follow-up strike that reportedly targeted survivors of an initial attack. The operation, part of U.S. military efforts against drug trafficking linked to Venezuela, raises serious legal and ethical questions, prompting calls for congressional reviews.

WASHINGTON (AP) – The White House has asserted that a Navy admiral acted within his authority and the law concerning a military operation conducted on September 2 in the Caribbean Sea. This response comes after the operation garnered significant scrutiny from lawmakers across party lines regarding the legality and ethics of a follow-up strike on an alleged drug boat.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated the Pentagon's position after reports indicated a second attack had resulted in the deaths of survivors from the initial strike. Secretary Hegseth authorized Admiral Bradley to conduct these kinetic strikes, Leavitt commented, highlighting that the operation aimed to neutralize threats to U.S. national security.

President Trump expressed reservations about the second strike's necessity, stating he wouldn’t have wanted that — not a second strike. Yet, Leavitt defended the actions taken, insisting that they conformed to international law and military protocols.

Lawmakers, including Senator Tim Kaine and Representative Mike Turner, voiced severe concerns regarding the legality of the attacks, especially in light of reports alleging that the second strike targeted individuals no longer deemed a threat. Turner remarked, If that occurred, that would be very serious and I agree that that would be an illegal act. This inquiry has fueled discussions about potential war crimes if the allegations are proven true.

Meanwhile, Hegseth, who leads the Defense Department’s response, called the narratives of wrongful action fake news, asserting that the operations are lawful and supported by competent legal counsel throughout the military hierarchy.

The operation’s primary aim, according to the U.S. administration, is to dismantle drug cartels allegedly managed by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Recent developments suggest that the Venezuelan government is launching its investigation into the matter as concerns escalate within the national discourse regarding U.S. military actions abroad.

As the situation unfolds, Trump is poised to discuss continued military strategies in the Caribbean with his security team, potentially considering direct strikes against Venezuela.