US Navy admiral ordered second deadly Venezuela boat strike, White House says

The White House has distanced itself from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding allegations that he ordered military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of all individuals on board. A spokesperson clarified that while Hegseth gave the order for strikes, he did not instruct to 'kill everybody.'

A shooting incident near the White House resulted in the death of one National Guard member and critical injuries to another. The suspect, identified as Rahmanullah Lakanwal, an Afghan national, was reportedly experiencing a personal crisis at the time of the attack. A U.S. official has disputed the White House's account regarding the circumstances surrounding a separate deadly boat strike in the Caribbean.

Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated as President Donald Trump issued a stark ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, suggesting he can choose to resolve the situation 'the easy way or the hard way.' This comes amid a significant military buildup by the U.S. in the Caribbean, reminiscent of Cold War-era confrontations.

Trinidad and Tobago's approval of a US military radar installation has raised concerns about the Caribbean's potential involvement in the escalating US-Venezuela crisis. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has attempted to downplay fears, asserting that a US C-17 aircraft was merely transporting marines for a road project, claiming no marines remain in the country.

The U.S. military has confirmed two strikes on a boat in the Caribbean, part of a broader campaign against alleged drug trafficking linked to Venezuela. This follows a significant naval buildup in the region, with at least 19 suspected drug vessels targeted since September. The White House has defended the actions taken by a U.S. admiral, despite reports suggesting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered lethal measures against all individuals on board.

The White House confirmed that a US Navy admiral authorized a second strike on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel linked to Venezuela, which has raised questions about the legality and implications of such military actions. This strike follows a previous operation and is part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking in the Caribbean region.

U.S. envoys are traveling to Moscow to engage in discussions with President Vladimir Putin regarding a proposed peace plan for Ukraine, with the White House expressing optimism about reaching an agreement despite Ukraine's concerns over potential concessions to Russia.

Melania Trump has unveiled this year's White House Christmas decorations, themed 'Home Is Where the Heart Is.' The display features Lego portraits of Donald Trump and George Washington, along with 3D-printed ornaments, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern elements.