WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House announced that a naval officer acted 'within his authority and the law' during a military operation that targeted a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean in September. The operation, which included a second strike, has faced bipartisan scrutiny from lawmakers concerned about reports of casualties among survivors following the initial strike.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth authorized the follow-up strike, which aimed to eliminate a threat to the United States. However, lawmakers are calling for further investigation, citing serious legal implications surrounding the reports of attacking individuals unable to fight.
Senator Tim Kaine highlighted the severity of the matter, suggesting it could amount to a war crime if the reports are accurate. Representative Mike Turner expressed skepticism about the information but acknowledged the potential seriousness of the situation.
President Trump defended Hegseth, stating that he did not order the deaths of any individuals during the operation. The administration insists the strikes are part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking linked to Venezuelan authorities.
The controversy has prompted discussions in Congress about reviewing military actions in the region, and the Venezuelan government has announced its own investigation into the strikes, underscoring tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela.
