1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

I write as a deeply concerned citizen regarding recent maritime strikes carried out by the United States military against vessels in international waters. These actions—such as the strike off the coast of Venezuela that killed six individuals, and others in the Pacific killing multiple aboard boats allegedly carrying narcotics—raise profound legal, ethical, and humanitarian questions. AP News +2 Al Jazeera +2 While I understand and share the desire to stem drug trafficking and protect the safety of Americans, the means used in these operations appear to sidestep Congress’s constitutionally‑mandated role in authorizing armed force, and lack full transparency. Human Rights Watch +1 Specifically, I urge you to consider the following: Require full disclosure of the intelligence, legal justification, and chain of command for each strike. Ensure that any lethal action conforms to U.S. and international law, including due process and accountability for non‑combatants. Reinforce Congress’s oversight role in authorizing military or paramilitary actions outside declared war zones, so that the separation of powers is respected. Promote non‑lethal alternatives and diplomacy where possible, to address narcotics trafficking without resorting to deadly force which may escalate conflict and undermine long‑term cooperation. These operations are not abstract—they involve human lives, international relations, and our nation’s moral standing. The absence of adequate oversight threatens our constitutional principles and the rule of law. I respectfully request that you use your position to firmly hold the executive branch accountable, demand transparency, and act to protect both American security and human rights. We must seek solutions that do not compromise our values. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter and for the service you render to our country.