UPDATE: The Trump administration is facing mounting criticism after recent military strikes against alleged drug dealers in international waters, which have reportedly resulted in the deaths of around 100 people. CNN analyst Abby Phillip claimed the administration may have “put itself in a box” regarding the legality of these actions during a segment on Anderson Cooper 360.
This urgent situation highlights significant national security claims made by Trump’s administration, yet experts argue there is insufficient evidence to support such assertions. Over 20 strikes have been conducted, leading to questions about the administration’s legal justification. Phillip emphasized that the endorsement of these strikes by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt before a thorough investigation raises serious concerns.
“The Trump administration has dug itself into a bit of a hole,”
Phillip stated. Legal experts are now scrutinizing whether these actions could be classified as extrajudicial killings, given the lack of transparency from the Department of Justice (DOJ) regarding the legal framework for these strikes. Reports indicate that the DOJ’s legal opinion may be heavily reliant on Trump’s assertions rather than established legal precedent.
In a related development, Senator Lindsey Graham faced backlash after a peculiar commentary regarding Pope Leo XIV, who has recently criticized Trump’s immigration policies. Graham’s remarks have drawn ridicule as he urged the new pope to align with what he called “the right side of history.”
Meanwhile, Representative Elise Stefanik, a prominent Republican from New York, has taken aim at her party’s leadership by signing a bipartisan petition aimed at banning Congress members from trading individual stocks. Stefanik, who is eyeing a gubernatorial run, expressed her frustration with current GOP leadership’s resistance to this reform.
In a shocking incident, authorities report that Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old immigrant from Bellingham, Washington, allegedly shot two National Guard members near the White House, resulting in one fatality. This tragic event underscores growing concerns over public safety and violence within the capital. Lakanwal has pleaded not guilty to murder, further complicating the situation.
These developments reflect a critical moment for the Trump administration, as it navigates complex legal and political challenges. The implications of these strikes and the internal GOP rifts will undoubtedly shape the upcoming political landscape.
As this story unfolds, all eyes will be on how the administration addresses the growing scrutiny over its military actions and the legislative push from within the party. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.