Post Reports

Why the U.S. military is striking boats from Venezuela

11 snips
Sep 15, 2025
Tara Copp, a national security reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the controversial U.S. military attack on a Venezuelan boat allegedly tied to drug trafficking. She highlights the departure from traditional protocols and the implications of labeling the crew as 'narco-terrorists.' The discussion also covers the Pentagon's rebranding efforts, concerns over military oversight, and the strategic shift towards a more aggressive approach to foreign policy. Is this a new chapter in the war on terror? Tune in for insights on these pressing issues.
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INSIGHT

Unusual Public Release Of Strike Video

  • The Trump administration released a grainy video showing a boat explode and claimed it carried narco-terrorists from Venezuela.
  • The strike killed alleged smugglers and was presented as part of a new aggressive posture against drug networks.
INSIGHT

Terror Label Expands Military Options

  • The administration labeled cartels as terrorist organizations, opening legal avenues used against al-Qaeda and ISIS.
  • That designation potentially allows military strikes under the authorization for use of military force.
INSIGHT

Significant Details About Strike Are Missing

  • Key operational facts about the strike remain unknown: number of dead, weapon platform, and legal authority used.
  • The administration provided a letter invoking Article II but offered no detailed proof linking those killed to cartels.
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