Trump Administration Secrets On Military Boat Strikes Cause Bipartisan Outcry

The Trump administration has faced bipartisan criticism for conducting secret briefings with Senate Republicans about recent military strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, excluding Democrats from these sessions. These strikes, which have resulted in over 20 fatalities, are justified by the administration as lawful actions against narcoterrorists, though Democrats argue the operations lack proper legal basis and congressional oversight. Senate leaders Roger Wicker and Jack Reed expressed frustration over not receiving detailed information or legal opinions justifying the strikes, which have also heightened tensions with Venezuela. Congressman Jim Himes and Senator Mark Warner condemned the secrecy and questioned the legality and executive overreach of these operations under the War Powers Resolution. Internationally, Russia and China condemned the strikes while the UN called for de-escalation and diplomatic resolution. The administration defended its approach, promising additional briefings and engagement with Congress, but the controversy highlights deep divisions over U.S. military actions targeting drug cartels and the role of congressional oversight.