Lawmakers from both political parties in the United States have expressed their support for congressional scrutiny of military actions ordered by President Donald Trump against vessels suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. This follows a report stating that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave a verbal order to eliminate all crew members during a September 2 operation, which has sparked concerns about potential war crimes if true.
Democratic Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that such actions could constitute a war crime. On the other hand, Hegseth defended the legality of the operations, asserting that they comply with U.S. and international laws and have been approved by legal experts.
President Trump acknowledged the need to investigate the matter further and stated that he did not support a second strike. He also supported Hegseth, denying that he had ordered the deaths of the crew members.
Republican Representative Mike Turner of Ohio underscored the need for transparency, mentioning ongoing investigations by congressional committees to ascertain the facts surrounding the reported attack. There are concerns among lawmakers regarding the legality of targeting survivors of military strikes and the escalating campaign against drug trafficking into the U.S.
The administration’s recent actions, including declaring airspace around Venezuela as closed and considering strikes on the Venezuelan mainland, have raised tensions with the Venezuelan government. Congressional leaders have pledged to conduct thorough oversight to clarify the circumstances and legality of the military operations in question.
In response to the allegations, Hegseth dismissed the reports as “fake news,” criticizing the media for discrediting military personnel. Trump confirmed a recent conversation with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, without divulging details of the discussion, amid heightened pressure on Venezuela and discussions of potential military actions.
The communication ministry of Venezuela did not immediately comment on the reported call between Trump and Maduro, as the situation continues to unfold.
