UPDATE: A heated exchange unfolded between Senator Mark Kelly and former Navy combat veteran Pete Hegseth during a classified briefing, as the Pentagon confirmed it is escalating its investigation into Kelly following remarks he made in a controversial video. The situation is developing quickly, with significant implications for both political and military accountability.
In the briefing, held earlier today, Kelly confronted Hegseth after the latter deflected questions regarding military strikes in the Caribbean. Hegseth referenced a recent review of a video in which Kelly, along with other veterans, urged troops to disobey what they labeled as “illegal orders” from the Trump administration. “He actually brought it up in the brief, oddly,” Kelly said, emphasizing that Hegseth’s response was merely a reiteration of his talking points rather than addressing the critical issues at hand.
Senator Chris Coons, who was also present, confirmed that Hegseth’s comments were only tangentially related to the briefing’s main topic, which included a confirmation of a September strike that resulted in the deaths of survivors from a Venezuelan drug boat. This footage, which has been viewed only by top congressional leaders, will be made available to Kelly and others on the Senate and House Armed Services Committees on Wednesday.
Kelly criticized the administration’s transparency regarding foreign affairs, particularly in light of the political firestorm surrounding President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela. “This is a critical moment, and the American public deserves clarity on these operations,” Kelly stated, highlighting the urgency of the matter.
Hegseth, responding to Kelly’s accusations, defended his position by labeling Kelly’s video as “irresponsible.” However, Senator Dan Sullivan expressed doubts about the appropriateness of the Pentagon’s time being spent on investigating Kelly. “We need to focus on real issues, not political performances,” Sullivan noted.
This clash between Kelly and Hegseth highlights the growing tensions in U.S. military and political arenas, particularly regarding actions taken in Venezuela. As the Pentagon increases scrutiny on Kelly, the implications for military oversight and accountability are more pressing than ever.
As this story continues to unfold, all eyes will be on the upcoming committee meeting where Kelly will have the opportunity to view the classified footage. What happens next could redefine the narrative surrounding U.S. military engagement in Venezuela and further influence the political landscape.
For ongoing updates, follow our coverage as we bring you the latest developments in this urgent situation.
