Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the U.S. military’s decision to kill two survivors of a lethal strike in the Caribbean in a follow-up attack on the capsized boat

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the individual responsible for a recent attack in Syria was killed by U.S. partner forces, although further details were not disclosed. This statement comes amid ongoing military operations in the region and reflects the U.S. commitment to countering threats in Syria.

The Cuban foreign ministry has condemned the U.S. military's seizure of the Skipper oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, labeling the act as 'piracy' and 'maritime terrorism.' This operation, which reportedly involved the capture of 1.1 million barrels of Venezuelan oil, is seen as a violation of international law and a direct attack on Cuba's economic interests, particularly its access to Venezuelan hydrocarbons.

Federal transportation officials are reportedly sharing the names of all U.S. airport travelers with ICE, raising concerns about privacy and the implications for travelers. This data sharing has led to questions about the number of arrests made as a result, highlighting a potential overreach in surveillance practices.

Congressional Democrats have formally requested Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to release the full, unedited video of U.S. military strikes on an alleged drug-smuggling boat in the Caribbean, which occurred on September 2. The second strike reportedly resulted in the deaths of survivors from the initial attack, raising serious ethical concerns regarding military engagement protocols.

The U.S. military is advancing tests for a new satellite-based digital communications backbone, which is deemed essential for future warfare and maintaining technological superiority in the 21st century. This initiative highlights the military's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its operations.

Bipartisan lawmakers in the Senate are advocating for the Pentagon to release unedited footage of a military strike on an alleged drug trafficking boat in the Caribbean. This push is part of a defense bill aimed at increasing transparency regarding controversial military operations that have resulted in civilian casualties.

U.S. military personnel, including staff officers and a drone pilot, are expressing concerns about potential legal repercussions related to their involvement in military strikes against suspected drug boats. This anxiety has led them to seek advice from external organizations regarding their legal standing in these operations.

National Security Editor Guy Taylor interviewed Eric Fanning, president and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association, discussing the challenges and opportunities in the U.S. government's acquisition and delivery of new technology for the military. The conversation took place on December 11, 2025.