Karoline Leavitt Rejects Accusation of Hegseth Ordering Second Drug Boat Strike — And Identifies the Real Culprit

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified on Monday that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was not responsible for issuing the controversial second-strike command against a Venezuelan vessel in September, later disclosing the actual source of the order. Hegseth has faced criticism from lawmakers across both parties, who questioned whether targeting survivors of the initial strike could be considered a war crime.

When asked to explain the details of the order, Leavitt read a statement: President Trump and Secretary Hegseth have consistently maintained that narco-terrorist groups designated by the presidency are legitimate targets under the laws of war. Regarding the September 2nd strikes, it was Secretary Hegseth who authorized Admiral Bradley to carry out the kinetic operations. Admiral Bradley acted fully within his legal authority to ensure the vessel was destroyed and the threat to the United States eliminated.

Leavitt emphasized the administrations rationale for these actions: These narco-terrorists are classified as foreign terrorist organizations, giving the president the authority to act if they pose a threat to the U.S. and are trafficking deadly illegal drugs. Previous administrations allowed enough fentanyl into the country to potentially harm every American multiple times over. The current administration has taken decisive measures, which is a key reason for the publics support of the president and Secretary Hegseths approach to these operations.

CBS News reporter Gabe Gutierrez asked, Was Admiral Bradley the one who authorized the second strike? Leavitt confirmed, Yes, and he acted fully within the scope of his authority.

Admiral Frank Bradley has held the position of commander of United States Special Operations Command since October 3.

Author: Sophia Brooks