President Signals Strong Support for Pentagon Leadership
President Donald J. Trump expressed full confidence in Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth following allegations that the Pentagon ordered a military unit to prevent survivors during a strike on a suspected Venezuelan drug‑smuggling vessel. Speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he believes Hegseth’s denial “one hundred percent.”
The comments come as several congressional committees prepare to examine the strike and determine whether any improper directives were issued.
Hegseth Rejects Claims About the Strike
Reports had surfaced alleging that Hegseth instructed U.S. forces to leave no survivors during an operation targeting an alleged drug trafficking boat. Some reports also described a second strike aimed at individuals who escaped the initial attack.
Hegseth rejected the claims outright, calling them fabricated and designed to misrepresent the nature of U.S. counter‑drug missions. He acknowledged that the operations are intended to be lethal when confronting armed traffickers but said he never issued an order to deliberately kill survivors.
Trump: Strike Was Effective, No Evidence of Wrongdoing
Trump said the initial strike was “very lethal” and described it as appropriately carried out against suspected traffickers. He also said Hegseth insisted no follow‑up strike targeting survivors occurred.
The President told reporters he plans to review the matter but sees no reason to doubt Hegseth’s statement. He emphasized his continued trust in the Defense Secretary’s judgment and leadership.
Congress Moves Toward Oversight
Members of Congress from both parties have announced plans to conduct oversight of the strike. Leadership from the House and Senate Armed Services Committees issued statements noting concerns about the incident and pledging to gather all available information.
Lawmakers say they intend to determine whether military actions aligned with legal authorities and rules of engagement, especially in operations outside traditional combat zones.
Ongoing Scrutiny of U.S. Pressure on Venezuela
The operation occurred as the United States has increased military pressure on the Venezuelan government and criminal networks tied to regional trafficking routes. President Trump recently signaled that broader actions may be forthcoming and declared the airspace surrounding Venezuela closed.
Venezuelan officials condemned the declaration, while the White House has not indicated whether additional operations are imminent.
Related Coverage
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
- Global News – https://idahonews.co/global-news/
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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