U.S. Admiral Transfers Command Amid Controversy Over Strikes

A U.S. Navy admiral who oversaw military operations in Latin America has officially transferred command duties as scrutiny intensifies over the Trump administration’s controversial strikes on alleged drug boats. On October 27, 2023, Adm. Alvin Holsey retired from his position, handing leadership to his deputy, Air Force Lt. Gen. Evan Pettus, during a ceremony at the U.S. Southern Command headquarters located near Miami.

During his farewell address, Holsey refrained from discussing the military operations or the circumstances surrounding his early retirement, which typically lasts three to four years. Instead, he emphasized the importance of maintaining strong partnerships in the region, stating, “To be a trusted partner, we must be credible, present and engaged.”

Holsey’s abrupt retirement was announced by the Pentagon in early October, coinciding with the Trump administration’s ongoing strikes on suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. These operations have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 87 individuals. As Congress begins to scrutinize these military actions, Holsey briefed key lawmakers earlier this week, a move that highlights the growing concerns over the legality and impact of these strikes.

Controversial Military Operations Under Review

The retirement ceremony for Holsey was notably subdued compared to previous events, attended primarily by Southern Command personnel, and absent of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth due to the lack of a nominated replacement for Holsey. General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, acknowledged Holsey’s 37 years of service without mentioning the military operations in Latin America. Caine praised Holsey as a “stoic” leader who consistently prioritized the welfare of others over personal recognition.

Holsey’s departure comes amidst bipartisan investigations in Congress into the strikes, particularly one incident that resulted in the deaths of two survivors clinging to wreckage from a previous attack. Lawmakers, including Senator Jack Reed, have expressed their intent to seek further clarification on the operations. Reed noted that while Holsey answered many questions, “there are still many questions to be answered.”

The legality of the strikes has been challenged by experts in warfare and human rights advocates, as well as some of Trump’s allies in Congress. Historically, individuals accused of drug trafficking have been arrested at sea by the U.S. Coast Guard and subsequently brought to the U.S. for prosecution. The administration’s military campaign has involved a significant deployment of resources, including warships, attack helicopters, and thousands of troops.

Pressure on Venezuela and Ongoing Military Strategy

The Trump administration has defended its aggressive tactics, labeling drug gangs in Venezuela, Colombia, and Mexico as “narcoterrorists.” This strategy has invoked a legal rationale that gained traction following the September 11, 2001 attacks, claiming that the U.S. is in an armed conflict with drug cartels. The increased military actions have placed additional pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who has been charged with narcoterrorism in the U.S.

In a significant escalation on October 25, U.S. forces seized control of a sanctioned oil tanker accused of smuggling illicit crude oil, a critical resource for Maduro’s regime. The Venezuelan leader has characterized the military operations as a direct attempt to unseat him from power.

Holsey’s exit is part of a broader trend of firings and sudden retirements among the military’s senior ranks since Hegseth took command of the Pentagon. Lt. Gen. Pettus, a fighter pilot with combat experience in Afghanistan and Iraq, has served as Holsey’s top deputy since late 2024. However, it remains uncertain how long he will hold the position, as any appointment by Trump requires Senate confirmation.

As the military and political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of Holsey’s departure and the ongoing operations in Latin America remain closely watched by lawmakers and military experts alike.