President Trump is facing scrutiny for his administration's military actions in the Caribbean, which seem at odds with his public image as a peacemaker. While the administration celebrated a ceasefire in Gaza, it simultaneously conducted missile strikes on boats off the coast of Venezuela, claiming they were linked to drug smuggling operations. Trump referred to one of these attacks as "a lethal kinetic strike" against a vessel associated with a Designated Terrorist Organization, although he did not specify the organization or provide evidence of drug involvement.

The Pentagon has not disclosed details about the weaponry used in these strikes. However, Pete Hegseth, recently designated as "Secretary of War," shared a video showing a small craft exploding. This incident was part of a series of five attacks that reportedly resulted in 27 deaths. A sixth strike over the weekend killed two more individuals and left two survivors. Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the U.S. actions, accusing Washington of murder after a September strike killed a Colombian fisherman.

U.S. Senator Rand Paul expressed concern over the legality of the military campaign, questioning the justification for destroying ships without clear legal grounds. His inquiries may go unanswered, as the Pentagon press corps was seen packing up and leaving the building in response to new restrictions on reporting. These rules require media to obtain official approval before publishing any information.

In a notable development, Admiral Alvin Holsey announced his resignation as head of the command responsible for Caribbean operations, just months into a three-year term. No reason was given for his departure, but it coincides with growing questions about the legality of the military actions and Trump's recent directive to military leaders to prepare for potential confrontations.

Despite the resignations and controversies, Trump has continued to escalate military operations in the region. He has authorized the CIA to use lethal force within Venezuela and is considering airstrikes on land targets in addition to maritime operations. The U.S. military presence in the area has increased, with additional troops, equipment, and aircraft deployed, including B-52 bombers circling off the Venezuelan coast.

This military buildup mirrors tactics used by other nations, such as Russia's troop movements before its invasion of Ukraine. Trump has indicated that the U.S. is prepared to use lethal force against targets in Venezuela, similar to actions taken by Israel in other regions.

As global leaders commend Trump for his diplomatic efforts in Gaza, the military strikes against alleged drug smugglers in Venezuela have drawn less attention. The U.S. has long sought to remove Nicolás Maduro from power, viewing his regime as a contributor to the country's ongoing crisis of poverty and lawlessness. The administration's actions may be seen as part of a broader strategy to address the situation in Venezuela, even as they raise significant legal and ethical questions about the use of military force abroad.