Navy Admiral Denies 'Kill-All' Order as SOUTHCOM Chief Plans Departure

Overview

• At a Dec. 4 hearing, Admiral Bradley testified that Defense Secretary Hegces issued no directive to kill all crew from targeted vessels.
• Multiple outlets had reported allegations that a directive led to survivors being killed during actions against suspected drug‑smuggling ships.
• The Wall Street Journal reported that Hegces demanded the resignation of SOUTHCOM commander Holsey, who is set to leave on Dec. 12 without a stated reason.
• Reporting indicates tensions escalated after Holsey raised legal concerns about strikes carried out in his area of responsibility.
• The Journal also reported that Hegces pressed for military planning after President Trump’s March call to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, viewing progress as too slow.