The United States military has carried out another strike on an alleged drug smuggling vessel in the Caribbean, coinciding with the surprise resignation of Admiral Alvin Holsey, head of US Southern Command. The strike follows a series of US operations targeting suspected narcotics traffickers in the region and comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

Details of the Latest Strike

A US official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the Thursday strike involved a drug smuggling vessel, with reports indicating survivors among the crew, a first in the ongoing series of operations. The Pentagon and President Donald Trump have not publicly confirmed the incident.

Since early September, the US has conducted five similar strikes in the Caribbean, resulting in at least 27 deaths. These operations are part of a controversial campaign aimed at disrupting Venezuelan narco-terrorist networks, which the Trump administration classifies as unlawful combatants.

International Reactions and Legal Concerns

The strikes have drawn widespread criticism from legal experts, human rights groups, and Democratic lawmakers, who question the legality of extrajudicial killings and potential violations of international law.

Venezuelan authorities condemned the operations, with UN Ambassador Samuel Moncada urging the United Nations Security Council to investigate what he called “a series of assassinations.” Moncada specifically referenced a strike earlier in the week that killed six people, including two fishermen from Trinidad and Tobago, accusing the US of fabricating a war in the Caribbean.

US Military Buildup in the Caribbean

The strike occurs amidst an unprecedented US military buildup in the Caribbean, including guided missile destroyers, F-35 fighter jets, a nuclear submarine, and roughly 6,500 troops. President Trump has authorized covert CIA operations in Venezuela and has suggested the possibility of ground attacks against cartel operations.

Maduro has condemned the escalation, accusing Washington of attempting regime change while defending his country against what he described as US-orchestrated coups.

Admiral Alvin Holsey’s Resignation

Adding to the upheaval, Admiral Alvin Holsey, commander of US Southern Command, announced his early retirement effective December 12, 2025, after serving just one year in his current role. Holsey cited no specific reason for his departure.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth praised Holsey’s career on X, highlighting his “unwavering commitment to mission, people, and nation” and commending his “operational excellence and strategic vision.”

Implications for US-Venezuela Relations

The Caribbean strikes, combined with Holsey’s sudden resignation, underscore a volatile moment in US-Venezuela relations and highlight ongoing concerns about extrajudicial actions, regional security, and drug trafficking enforcement. Analysts warn that continued military escalation could heighten tensions and risk civilian casualties, further straining diplomatic channels in the region.