U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, a Republican representing Mississippi and chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement following briefings on recent lethal kinetic strikes against narco-terrorists in the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) area of operations.
“After participating in the various briefings provided by the administration, I am confident that the strikes that have taken place thus far against narco-terrorists in the SOUTHCOM area of operations were conducted based on sound legal advice. Our military takes the use of force against combatants very seriously. Each strike has been preceded by a rigorous analysis of extensive intelligence, as well as a thorough legal review. There is no more competent or effective force than the U.S. military. These operations have been conducted in the same proficient and professional standard we have come to expect from these exceptional men and women,” Wicker said.
He noted dissatisfaction with previous efforts to deter narcotrafficking and called for a comprehensive approach: “Clearly previous methods to deter and disrupt narcotrafficking have not worked. We cannot sit idly by and simply hope things change. We must have a coherent economic, diplomatic, and military strategy to reduce influence of the cartels in our hemisphere. To that end, I agree with President Trump’s strategy outlined by Secretary Rubio, and I hope we can work with the administration to discuss that strategy much more aggressively with the American people.”
Wicker addressed concerns about reports of secondary strikes: “When reports first surfaced about a secondary strike, my office immediately directed inquiries to the department to ascertain the veracity of these reports. I promised that SASC would take this matter seriously and conduct thorough oversight. We have done so. Both military and civilian Pentagon leaders have worked in good faith to provide answers to us without any delays. Today, I am satisfied with all the information I have received on this matter.”
He also stated there was no evidence of war crimes: “I have seen no evidence of war crimes. The fact is that our military is asked to make incredibly difficult decisions. Service members must do so based on the best available information and often under very tight timelines. In order to safeguard our country and protect our way of life, they undertake this responsibility with proficiency and integrity. It is in the best interest of our national security to support our men and women in uniform when they act based on advice from senior legal advisors.”
Wicker concluded his statement by thanking defense officials for their cooperation: “I greatly appreciate and thank the department’s senior leaders for working in earnest with Congress to brief the Senate Armed Services Committee.”
Senator Wicker has served as chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee since assuming his role after entering the U.S. Senate in December 2007 following service in the U.S. House [source]. He represents Mississippi [source].