UPDATE: Tensions erupted between Senator Mark Kelly and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a classified Pentagon briefing, as the Department of Defense confirmed it is escalating its investigation into Kelly over a controversial video. This urgent development raises significant questions about transparency in military operations and implications for U.S. foreign policy.
During the briefing on September strikes against a Venezuelan drug operation, Kelly confronted Hegseth on his handling of the situation. Hegseth reportedly deflected questions regarding military strikes in the Caribbean by referencing Kelly’s video, where he and other military veterans urged troops to disobey “illegal orders” from the Trump administration. “He actually brought it up in the brief, oddly,” Kelly told reporters, emphasizing the performative nature of Hegseth’s response.
According to sources, Hegseth confirmed that footage of a second strike will only be shared with members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees. Kelly, who serves on this panel, is set to view the footage on Wednesday. The implications of this footage are critical, as it has only been shown to top congressional leaders, heightening concerns over accountability.
Senator Chris Coons noted that the issue arose “tangentially” during the briefing. The Pentagon’s investigation into Kelly, initially a review, is now classified as an official Command Investigation. This escalated scrutiny comes amid growing concerns about the administration’s approach to foreign affairs, especially regarding Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and potential regime change efforts.
A spokesperson for Senator Dan Sullivan, also on the Armed Services Committee, criticized Kelly’s video as “irresponsible” but stated that he does not support the Pentagon’s investigation into the senator. This division among lawmakers highlights the contentious nature of military oversight and the political ramifications of the current investigations.
As the situation develops, the political landscape remains charged. The investigation into Kelly may have broader implications for electoral strategies heading into the 2025 elections, as Coons warns fellow Democrats against complacency and advocates for a “more affirmative vision” for future gains.
What happens next? Observers are keenly watching the Senate briefing scheduled for Wednesday, where Kelly will gain access to critical footage that may further influence public and political opinion on U.S. military operations in Venezuela.
This breaking story underscores the urgent need for transparency within military operations and the complexities of political accountability in Washington. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.
