Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed recent media reports alleging improper orders during a U.S. military operation targeting a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in the Caribbean on September 2, 2025. In a statement issued from the Pentagon, Secretary Hegseth firmly dismissed the claims as "fake news" and emphasized the Trump administration's commitment to combating drug cartels and terrorism without apology.
"The Washington Post's story is nothing more than a hit piece designed to undermine our efforts to secure America's borders and dismantle the narco-terror networks flooding our communities with poison," said Secretary Hegseth. "Under the previous administration, Biden coddled terrorists and let cartels run rampant. We don't. We kill them."
The allegations, first reported by The Washington Post, claim that Secretary Hegseth issued a verbal order to "kill everybody" aboard the vessel, leading to a follow-up strike that eliminated survivors.
Secretary Hegseth clarified that all operations were conducted in full compliance with U.S. laws and international standards, prioritizing the safety of American service members and the disruption of illicit drug flows.
"Our brave men and women in uniform are executing a clear mandate from President Trump to stop the fentanyl crisis at its source," Hegseth continued. "These strikes saved countless American lives by preventing tons of deadly drugs from reaching our streets. I stand by every decision made to protect our nation."
The Secretary reiterated that the Department of Defense will not be deterred by partisan media attacks and remains focused on strengthening national security. No further details on ongoing operations will be provided to avoid compromising future missions.