Anderson Cooper 360 Exclusive: Alleged Drug Boat Was Not Bound For U.S.
Dec 6, 2025
New revelations question the Trump administration's claims about a controversial drug boat strike, with an admiral testifying the boat wasn't heading to the U.S. and survivors didn't call for help. A discussion on the legal and ethical implications of the military action follows, highlighting potential intelligence gaps. Meanwhile, the president unexpectedly receives a FIFA peace prize, prompting debates about its political significance. The podcast also covers the arraignment of a D.C. pipe bomber and significant developments related to Epstein's grand jury materials.
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Destination Claim Undermined
- New reporting shows Admiral Frank Bradley told lawmakers the struck boat was not headed to the U.S. but toward Suriname via a larger vessel.
- That undercuts the administration's public claim the boat carried narcotics "heading to the United States."
Survivors' Signals Raise Questions
- Sources say Admiral Bradley reported survivors were waving at something in the air before the second strike.
- That raises questions whether they signaled surrender or sought help prior to being killed.
Legal Justification Is Weak
- Legal experts argue the operation fits law enforcement, not armed conflict, so self-defense claims are weak.
- They say the strikes lacked imminence and deviated from established interdiction practices like Coast Guard seizures.
