Congressional Clash Over U.S. Military Strike in Venezuelan Waters

By Jim Mishler | Thursday, December 11, 2025

The Senate is advancing its review of a U.S. military strike that destroyed an alleged drug-smuggling vessel, including a follow-up attack, even as the House moves to close its own investigation.

Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., stated he is seeking full access for the Senate Armed Services Committee to classified video documenting the initial missile strike on the vessel and a subsequent strike that reportedly killed the remaining occupants.

Senate Democrats have demanded the release of the video publicly and are seeking clarification on legal implications of the operation in Venezuelan waters. They also request additional briefings regarding the regional mission and authorization of the strike.

House Armed Services Chair Mike Rogers, R-Ala., asserted this week that Pentagon briefings and classified footage confirmed the strike was lawful. “It’s done,” he stated, adding he had received all necessary information.

Democrats on the committee disagree, insisting the investigation must continue. Ranking member Adam Smith, D-Wash., expects a bipartisan briefing next week with Adm. Mitch Bradley, who ordered the second strike on September 2. Smith maintained the inquiry remains “far from over” and reiterated calls for public release of the video to ensure a credible review.

Smith highlighted significant unresolved questions about chain of command, legal authority, and overall mission conduct. He argued that public access to the video is essential for transparency.

Some experts and Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns that the deaths of survivors could constitute a war crime if the follow-up strike lacked proper legal justification.

Wicker and ranking member Jack Reed, D-R.I., issued a joint statement in late November urging robust oversight to determine facts.

Pentagon officials have provided multiple classified briefings for lawmakers, but several senators report critical details remain undisclosed. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., criticized the Pentagon for showcasing other strike videos while withholding this one, stating it undermines confidence in departmental transparency.

Defense leaders have yet to commit to releasing the footage. President Donald Trump has indicated he is comfortable with public release. War Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that releasing the video could expose sensitive operational methods. A provision in the annual defense bill would restrict part of Hegseth’s travel budget unless the video and similar footage are provided to Congress.