WASHINGTON — WASHINGTON (AP) — The Navy admiral overseeing military operations in the region where U.S. forces are present. attacked suspected drug ships Venezuela will step down in December, he and the defense minister announced Thursday.
Admiral Alvin Halsey became head of US Southern Command only in November, overseeing an area spanning the Caribbean and South American waters. This type of publication typically lasts three to four years.
News of Halsey's impending resignation comes two days after the fifth deadly US military strike in the Caribbean on a small ship accused of transporting drugs. The Trump administration said it treats alleged drug traffickers as unlawful combatants which must be met with military force.
There was growing dissatisfaction with the attacks on Capitol Hill. Some Republicans have asked the White House for more information about the legal rationale and details of the strikes, while Democrats argue the strikes violate U.S. and international law.
In a statement posted on the command's Facebook page, Halsey said it has been his “honor to serve our nation, the American people, and support and defend our Constitution for over 37 years.”
“Team SOUTHCOM has made an invaluable contribution to the defense of our country and will continue to do so,” he said. “I am confident that you will move forward focused on your mission, which strengthens our nation and ensures its longevity as a beacon of freedom around the world.”
US Southern Command did not provide any additional information beyond the admiral's statement.
In a message issued Thursday afternoon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked Halsey for his “decades of service to our country, and we wish him and his family continued success and fulfillment in the years ahead.”
“Admiral Halsey has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the mission, the people and the nation,” Hegseth wrote.
Pentagon officials did not provide any additional information and referred to Hegseth's statement on social media.
