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Defense Secretary Demands Resignation Amid Controversial Strikes

12/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requested the resignation of Adm. Alvin Holsey, head of U.S. Southern Command.
Holsey raised concerns about the legality of strikes against alleged drug-smuggling vessels begun in September and causing over 80 deaths.
Hegseth reportedly lost confidence in Holsey and confronted him in October.
Congress is investigating the military's rationale for a follow-up attack and seeking details from the Trump administration.
Holsey will retire on December 12.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth requested the resignation of Adm. Alvin Holsey, head of U.S. Southern Command.
Holsey raised concerns about the legality of strikes against alleged drug-smuggling vessels begun in September and causing over 80 deaths.
Hegseth reportedly lost confidence in Holsey and confronted him in October.
Congress is investigating the military's rationale for a follow-up attack and seeking details from the Trump administration.
Holsey will retire on December 12.