Trump: Venezuelan airspace should be deemed 'closed'

Several lawmakers are demanding accountability from the Trump administration following reports of a second U.S. military strike on a vessel accused of drug trafficking off the coast of Venezuela. This incident, which occurred on September 2, has raised concerns about potential war crimes and the legality of such military actions.

The United States has deployed 11 warships and approximately 15,000 troops to the Caribbean amid escalating tensions with Venezuela. The Secretary of the Navy emphasized the importance of utilizing the nation's best assets to protect the homeland. This military buildup is seen as a significant response to ongoing concerns regarding Venezuela's activities, particularly accusations against its government related to drug trafficking.

Former CIA Moscow station chief has cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin may leverage ongoing negotiations regarding Ukraine to gain a tactical advantage on the battlefield, rather than seeking genuine peace. This warning comes as a Ukrainian delegation engages with top officials from the Trump administration.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) announced plans to refile a war powers resolution that would require congressional approval for any military action in Venezuela, expressing optimism about gaining bipartisan support this time. This move comes amid rising tensions regarding U.S. involvement in Venezuela's political situation.

President Donald Trump announced the complete closure of airspace above and surrounding Venezuela, citing a deteriorating security situation and increased military activity in the region. The Venezuelan government responded by condemning this declaration as a violation of international law and a 'colonialist threat' to its sovereignty.

Senator Markwayne Mullin stated that President Trump does not intend to deploy troops to Venezuela, emphasizing a non-military approach to the situation. This declaration comes amid escalating tensions and military operations planned against Venezuelan drug traffickers, which Trump announced will begin soon.

The Trump administration has announced an indefinite halt on immigration from Afghanistan following a shooting incident near the White House that left one National Guard member dead and another critically injured. The suspected shooter, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, reportedly entered the U.S. during the 2021 airlift. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding security and immigration policies.

Senator Mark Kelly criticized former President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as 'not serious people' following their reactions to a video in which he and other Democrats urged military personnel to refuse illegal orders. This statement comes amid a Pentagon investigation into Kelly's comments, which have sparked significant controversy.