US Military Strike Killing Survivors Off Venezuela Draws War Crime Accusations, Calls for Video Release
December 5, 2025
Congressman Jim Himes called a secret video of a US military strike killing two survivors off Venezuela "one of the most troubling scenes" he has seen. The attack happened on September 2 and followed an initial strike against boats. Donald Trump shared only the first strike video but not the follow-up that killed survivors. Trump said he supports destroying the boats, blaming those onboard for trying to kill Americans. The Pentagon said the attack was chaotic, calling it "the fog of war." Trump later said he would agree to release the second strike video. Human rights experts label the strikes as potential war crimes. Sarah Yager from Human Rights Watch said there was no legal war, so killing those on the boats is illegal. Senate leaders called for full video and audio as part of investigations. Democrats are pushing legislation to block US troop use in Venezuela. The White House defended the operation as lawful. So far, 83 people died in 21 US strikes since September. Rights groups want Congress to carefully review these attacks and ensure transparency. They warn these actions risk violating legal and ethical standards. Lawmakers demand answers on why force was used over rescue and stress the need for serious oversight of military actions.
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Tags:
Extrajudicial Strike
Military operation
Human rights
U.s. congress
Venezuela
War crimes
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