A top US Navy commander ordered a second round of military strikes on an alleged Venezuelan drug boat, the White House has confirmed. Admiral (Frank) Bradley worked well within his authority and the law in ordering the additional strike, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday.
Leavitt confirmed Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the strikes but did not give an order to kill everybody, as reported by the Washington Post. The second strike followed reports that two people survived the initial blast and were clinging to the burning vessel.
The strikes have raised concerns among both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, with promises of congressional reviews. Leavitt emphasized that groups labeled as narco-terrorists can be targeted according to laws of war.
In recent weeks, the US has expanded its military presence in the Caribbean and carried out several strikes against suspected drug smuggling boats. More than 80 people have been reported killed since the onset of these operations.
Critics question the legality of attacking survivors and raised alarms about the implications of such actions under international law. Recent developments have led to heightened scrutiny from lawmakers who are pledging rigorous investigations into these military actions.
Amidst escalating tensions, talks have emerged regarding the justification and legality of the US anti-narcotics operations in the Caribbean, reflecting the complex dynamics of international law and military engagement.
The ongoing situation continues to unfold, highlighting the serious ramifications of US military actions in foreign waters and their impact on US-Venezuela relations.
Leavitt confirmed Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the strikes but did not give an order to kill everybody, as reported by the Washington Post. The second strike followed reports that two people survived the initial blast and were clinging to the burning vessel.
The strikes have raised concerns among both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, with promises of congressional reviews. Leavitt emphasized that groups labeled as narco-terrorists can be targeted according to laws of war.
In recent weeks, the US has expanded its military presence in the Caribbean and carried out several strikes against suspected drug smuggling boats. More than 80 people have been reported killed since the onset of these operations.
Critics question the legality of attacking survivors and raised alarms about the implications of such actions under international law. Recent developments have led to heightened scrutiny from lawmakers who are pledging rigorous investigations into these military actions.
Amidst escalating tensions, talks have emerged regarding the justification and legality of the US anti-narcotics operations in the Caribbean, reflecting the complex dynamics of international law and military engagement.
The ongoing situation continues to unfold, highlighting the serious ramifications of US military actions in foreign waters and their impact on US-Venezuela relations.
