Trump, Hegseth deny knowing of second strike that killed survivors on suspected drug boat

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are distancing themselves from a controversial follow-up strike on survivors aboard a suspected drug-trafficking boat in the Caribbean. The strike, carried out in September after an initial attack failed to kill everyone on board, is now under congressional scrutiny.

During a Cabinet meeting, Trump told reporters he had not been briefed beforehand and said he was unaware of the survivors targeted afterward. He added that he relies on Hegseth for updates, saying the defense secretary had been “satisfied” with the military operation.

Hegseth also attempted to shift responsibility to U.S. Special Operations Commander Adm. Frank M. “Mitch” Bradley, who he said was fully empowered to make operational decisions. Hegseth acknowledged he watched the first strike live but left before officials realized people had survived.

The follow-up strike has drawn bipartisan concern over legality, with some lawmakers warning it could constitute a war crime. Members of the Senate Armed Services Committee have demanded all audio and video recordings of the incident as part of an ongoing investigation.

Hegseth previously dismissed the reporting on the strike as “fake,” but the administration later confirmed the follow-up attack occurred. His earlier statements about fully knowing who was on the boat have raised further questions.

The administration has defended its broader military operations in the region, arguing they are necessary to stop drug trafficking. Trump said he intends to expand strikes into Venezuela and refused to rule out targeting individuals in other countries if deemed part of trafficking networks.

Lawmakers from both parties say they are committed to vigorous oversight, especially as questions remain about transparency and decision-making. Some accuse the administration of withholding crucial evidence, further escalating concerns on Capitol Hill.

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