Overview
- War Secretary Pete Hegseth said a drone strike in the eastern Pacific marked the 16th attack since September, bringing the reported death toll to at least 66 suspected smugglers with no U.S. casualties.
- The 60-day War Powers window triggered by a Sept. 4 notification has expired, and the Office of Legal Counsel told lawmakers the White House will not seek approval to continue the strikes.
- Senators Rand Paul, Tim Kaine and Adam Schiff plan to revive efforts to limit President Trump’s authority for further action, as many Republicans signal support for the current campaign.
- Senate Armed Services leaders Roger Wicker and Jack Reed demanded execute orders, OLC opinions and targeting details, saying the Pentagon has not provided the requested documents.
- The U.S. has built up a large regional force with Navy ships, bombers and thousands of personnel, and officials say options under review include airstrikes inside Venezuela, special-operations raids and seizing oil infrastructure, though no decision has been made.