The United States military launched Operation Southern Spear targeting drug trafficking vessels allegedly linked to Nicolás Maduro in the Caribbean Sea, directed by Pete Hegseth and Frank M. Bradley with Donald Trump confirming the chain of command.Frank M. Bradley and Dan Caine told lawmakers that Hegseth did not order the elimination of everyone on the vessel, prompting scrutiny after over 80 deaths and a follow-up strike sparked legal questions.The Pentagon maintains all actions were lawful and justified, but Trump has faced criticism as the Defense Department inspector general begins reviewing Hegseth’s communication methods and public opinion remains divided on the ethics and legality of the strikes.