U. S. Holds Survivors After Striking Venezuelan Drug Boat

In a recent event, the U. S. military struck a boat linked to a Venezuelan drug cartel in international waters. Two survivors from this incident are now in U. S. custody. Navy helicopters were sent to rescue these individuals after spotting them on video footage. They were then taken to a U. S. Navy ship, but details about their current custody and health remain unknown. This strike marks the fifth time the Trump administration has targeted boats suspected of drug trafficking ties to Venezuela. Previous strikes resulted in at least 21 deaths, with no survivors. Concerns have been raised by U. S. lawmakers about the lack of transparency from the White House regarding these operations. President Trump recently acknowledged authorizing the CIA to take action in Venezuela. He cited two main reasons: the influx of Venezuelan prisoners into the U. S. and the drug trafficking from Venezuela. This announcement coincided with Admiral Alvin Holsey's decision to retire as commander of the U. S. Southern Command. Holsey, who oversees military activities in Latin America, announced his retirement effective December 12. He praised the contributions of the SOUTHCOM team and expressed confidence in their continued mission. The U. S. Southern Command is responsible for military operations in the region and has around 1, 200 personnel. The situation raises questions about the effectiveness and transparency of U. S. military actions against drug trafficking. While the goal is to curb drug flow and maintain regional stability, the lack of information and the high death toll in previous strikes are concerning. It's important to consider the broader implications of these actions and the need for accountability.