1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

The recent expansion of U.S. military operations in the Caribbean, dubbed "Operation Southern Spear", represents a dangerous escalation of our military presence in the region that could have severe consequences. This aggressive anti-drug campaign, announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, goes far beyond what is necessary for drug interdiction efforts and signals broader, more concerning intentions. The scale of this operation is alarming. It involves nearly a dozen Navy ships, approximately 12,000 sailors and Marines, and even includes the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford. This massive deployment is disproportionate to the stated goals of the mission and raises questions about its true objectives. The human cost of these operations is already evident. At least 20 strikes on vessels in South American waters have resulted in 76 reported casualties. This loss of life is unacceptable and undermines the credibility of the mission's purported aims. Furthermore, the proximity of these operations to Venezuela and the consideration of potential land strikes raise serious concerns about the campaign's intentions. The Trump administration's accusations against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's government, which Maduro denies, seem to be driving a dangerous military buildup that could lead to unnecessary conflict. I urge you to take immediate action to halt the escalation of "Operation Southern Spear". We need a thorough congressional review of these military actions and their potential consequences. The focus should be on diplomatic solutions and international cooperation to address drug trafficking, not unilateral military operations that risk regional stability and American lives. Please use your position to demand transparency from the administration about the full scope and intentions of these operations. We must prevent any further expansion of this military campaign and work towards a more measured, diplomatic approach to addressing narcoterrorism in the Caribbean. The safety of our military personnel, the stability of the region, and our nation's international reputation are at stake.