Admiral Overseeing Venezuela Strikes Announces Retirement

Admiral Alvin Holsey, the head of US military forces in Latin America, will retire this December. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the announcement on Thursday. The retirement is happening two years ahead of schedule.

This decision comes amid heightened US tensions with Venezuela. Admiral Holsey was directly overseeing American naval strikes against alleged Venezuelan drug boats.

Leadership Shakeup Amid Caribbean Buildup

Admiral Holsey’s departure coincides with a significant military buildup. The US has deployed guided missile destroyers and F-35 fighter jets to the region. A nuclear submarine and approximately 6,500 troops are also part of this presence.

Neither Hegseth nor Holsey provided a specific reason for the early retirement. However, a source familiar with the matter cited by Reuters indicated there was tension between the admiral and the defense secretary. The tension reportedly involved operations in the Caribbean.

A Pattern of Pentagon Departures

Admiral Holsey is the latest senior officer to leave since Secretary Hegseth took over the Pentagon. According to Reuters, there have been several abrupt firings in the department. This includes the dismissal of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

The US military strikes against Venezuelan boats have resulted in 27 deaths. The Trump administration states these strikes target narcoterrorist groups. It considers these actions a legitimate part of its war on drugs.

The sudden retirement of Admiral Alvin Holsey marks a significant shift in US military leadership for Latin America. This change occurs as America’s naval strategy against Venezuela enters a critical new phase.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Admiral Alvin Holsey?

Admiral Alvin Holsey is the top US military commander for Latin America. He has served for over 37 years. He was overseeing US forces during recent tensions with Venezuela.

Why is he retiring early?

The official reason for his early retirement was not given. A Reuters source reported tension with Defense Secretary Hegseth over Caribbean operations. His departure is two years ahead of schedule.

What is the US military presence in the Caribbean?

The US has a substantial force in the region currently. It includes guided missile destroyers, F-35 jets, and a nuclear submarine. Approximately 6,500 US troops are also deployed there.

What are the US strikes on Venezuelan boats?

The US Navy has conducted strikes on boats it says are involved in drug trafficking. These actions have resulted in multiple fatalities. The US government labels them as strikes against narcoterrorists.

Has there been other recent leadership change at the Pentagon?

Yes, Admiral Holsey is part of a series of flag officer departures. This trend began after Secretary Hegseth’s appointment. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff was also recently fired.