Vance’s comments about Venezuelan boat strikes spark criticism online

WorldPolitics
18 Sep 2025 • 7:36 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Donald Trump ordered two strikes on what he claimed were Venezuelan drug boats, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals.
  • Vice President JD Vance joked about the deadly strikes at a Michigan rally, stating he “wouldn't go fishing right now” in the affected area.
  • Vance's comments sparked widespread criticism online, with social media users questioning the legality of the strikes and his perceived giddiness about violence.
  • Senator Tim Kaine and 24 other Democratic senators challenged the administration's legal justification for the strikes, demanding further information.
  • Venezuela's interior minister refuted Trump's claims, asserting that none of the 11 people killed in one strike were drug traffickers or members of the Tren de Aragua gang.

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