WASHINGTON — The Navy admiral who oversees navy operations within the area the place U.S. forces have been attacking alleged drug boats off Venezuela will retire in December, he and the Protection Secretary introduced Thursday.
Adm. Alvin Holsey grew to become the chief of U.S. Southern Command solely in November, overseeing an space that encompasses the Caribbean Sea and waters off South America. Most of these postings usually final between three and 4 years.
The information of Holsey’s upcoming retirement comes two days after the U.S. navy’s fifth lethal strike within the Caribbean towards a small boat accused of carrying medication. The Trump administration has asserted it’s treating alleged drug traffickers as illegal combatants who have to be met with navy pressure.
Frustration with the assaults has been rising on Capitol Hill. Some Republicans have been in search of extra info from the White Home on the authorized justification and particulars of the strikes, whereas Democrats contend the strikes violate U.S. and worldwide regulation.
Holsey stated in an announcement posted on the command’s Fb web page that it is “been an honor to serve our nation, the American folks and help and defend our Structure for over 37 years.”
“The SOUTHCOM workforce has made lasting contributions to the protection of our nation and can proceed to take action,” he stated. “I’m assured that you’ll forge forward, centered in your mission that strengthens our nation and ensures its longevity as a beacon of freedom across the globe.”
U.S. Southern Command didn’t present any extra info past the admiral’s assertion.
In a publish on X Thursday afternoon, Protection Secretary Pete Hegseth thanked Holsey for his “a long time of service to our nation, and we want him and his household continued success and achievement within the years forward.”
“Admiral Holsey has demonstrated unwavering dedication to mission, folks, and nation,” Hegseth wrote.
Officers on the Pentagon didn’t present any extra info and referred The Related Press to Hegseth’s assertion on social media.
The New York Occasions first reported on Holsey’s plans to go away his place.
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