U.S. military actions in the Caribbean, particularly those targeting vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking, have come under scrutiny from both lawmakers and legal experts. Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) expressed serious concerns regarding the legality of a military strike ordered by the Trump administration, which reportedly involved a missile attack on a boat transporting drugs. Following the initial strike, a second attack was launched against survivors, raising questions about potential war crimes. Kelly emphasized the need for an inspector general investigation and public hearings to ensure adherence to U.S. and international law in military operations.

Former military legal experts, including members of the Former Judge Advocates General (JAGs) Working Group, have criticized Secretary Hegseth's directive to 'kill everybody' aboard a targeted vessel, suggesting that such orders could constitute war crimes or murder. They argue that traditional law enforcement responses should have been employed instead of lethal military actions. Reports indicate that the strikes have resulted in civilian casualties, including individuals not involved in drug trafficking, such as a bus driver and a fisherman.

Bipartisan support for congressional reviews of these military actions has emerged, with lawmakers from both parties acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations against Hegseth. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Representative Mike Turner (R-OH) have both raised concerns about the legality of the strikes, with Kaine suggesting that they could amount to war crimes if the reports are accurate. Investigations by the Armed Services Committees in both the House and Senate are underway, although Hegseth has defended the operations as lawful under both U.S. and international law.

The U.S. government has characterized its military actions as part of an 'armed conflict' with drug cartels in Venezuela, despite intelligence assessments indicating that Venezuela is not a significant source of drugs entering the U.S. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the involvement of Canadian technology in these military operations, prompting further inquiries into the implications of U.S. military actions in the region and their compliance with international law and humanitarian standards.