U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is under bipartisan scrutiny following controversial military strikes targeting suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific this year. 🌊⚓️ Lawmakers from both major parties are demanding greater transparency about the operations, which critics argue risk civilian safety.
Hegseth publicly reaffirmed his support for the missions on December 7, 2025, calling them 'critical to combating transnational crime.' However, congressional leaders have scheduled hearings to review operational protocols, with one senator calling the strategy 'a powder keg in sensitive waters.'
CGTN’s Walter Morris reports that at least 12 incidents since June 2025 have sparked regional diplomatic tensions. Analysts suggest the pressure reflects growing concerns about accountability in cross-border security operations.
