1A ICYMI: US Destroys Another Boat Coming From Venezuela
Sep 19, 2025
In this discussion, Konstantin Toropin, a Pentagon reporter for the Associated Press, delves into the recent U.S. military strikes on Venezuelan boats, which led to a tragic loss of life. He illuminates the controversy surrounding the claims that these boats were connected to drug trafficking and the lack of public evidence backing such assertions. The conversation also highlights bipartisan concerns about the legal implications of the strikes and the escalating militarization of U.S.–Venezuela relations, raising questions about the potential for deeper conflicts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Public Account Is Largely Presidential Posts
- Reporting on the strikes relies largely on President Trump's social media posts and posted videos.
- Pentagon officials repeatedly referred questions to the White House or declined to answer, leaving gaps in public evidence.
No Public Evidence For Drug Claims
- No evidence linking the boats to fentanyl shipments has been shared with media or the public.
- Pentagon press corps repeatedly requested justification and received no substantive public explanation.
Legal Basis Is Widely Questioned
- Legal experts describe the strikes as extrajudicial killings lacking clear legal basis.
- The White House argues self-defense, but experts remain skeptical that this legally justifies the attacks.