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U.S. Lawmakers Question Classified Military Strikes in Venezuela

12/16/2025

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Lawmakers Investigate Strikes

U.S. lawmakers are scrutinizing military strikes against suspected drug smuggling boats near Venezuela after a September attack that killed two survivors.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said full videos of the strikes will remain classified, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s earlier willingness to release them.
The operations have resulted in 95 deaths, and critics say the actions aim at regime change in Venezuela.

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Admiral Holsey Retires

Admiral Alvin Holsey, who led U.S. military operations against suspected drug smuggling boats, retired unexpectedly amid ongoing scrutiny.
His departure raises questions about the Pentagon's aggressive tactics, which have caused significant casualties.
Sources indicate Holsey previously expressed concerns about the legality and execution of the strikes, fueling tensions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
The operations framed as counterdrug missions have drawn criticism for overstepping legal boundaries and lacking congressional approval.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. military intervention in Panama in 1989 aimed to depose Manuel Noriega, resulting in over 500 civilian deaths. This operation, justified as a fight against drug trafficking, involved significant military resources and sparked debates about legality and sovereignty. Similar to current scrutiny over military strikes near Venezuela, past interventions often faced criticism for prioritizing regime change over humanitarian concerns. The long-term implications include ongoing tensions in U.S.-Latin American relations and questions about military accountability in foreign operations.

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Lawmakers Investigate Strikes

U.S. lawmakers are scrutinizing military strikes against suspected drug smuggling boats near Venezuela after a September attack that killed two survivors.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said full videos of the strikes will remain classified, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s earlier willingness to release them.
The operations have resulted in 95 deaths, and critics say the actions aim at regime change in Venezuela.

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