JD Vance Faces Backlash for Remarks on U.S. Military Strikes Against Alleged Venezuelan Drug Boats

VP JD Vance’s comments on U.S. military strikes on Venezuelan drug vessels have been questioned. President Donald Trump approved the strikes, which killed at least 14 people and raised legal and ethical questions.

Vance told a Michigan crowd that Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said no drug boats were entering the U.S. Vance answered, “I understand. “Hell, I wouldn’t go fishing right now in that area of the world,” I add. He may have amused the audience.

Vance’s statements were deemed insulting given the military strikes’ ferocity and casualties. Since the strikes occurred in international waters without congressional approval, some dispute their legality. Such measures may be extrajudicial killings, say lawyers.

The Trump administration alleges the missiles hit Tren de Aragua cartel vessels, a foreign terrorist group. Critics believe the lack of transparency and evidence undermines military force reasoning.

Both sides have questioned Vance’s remarks. Senator Rand Paul termed cheering unjustified killings “despicable and thoughtless sentiment.” Democrats like Jack Reed warned that such steps may escalate Venezuelan tensions and set a dangerous military precedent.

Vance’s remarks raise problems about balancing national security, international law, and human rights. Executive power limits and military drug trafficking accountability are debated.

Sources

• The Daily Beast

• The Independent

• The New Republic

• Yahoo News

• Washington Post

• AP News