U.S. Southern Command chief to step down early amid Venezuela tensions

Admiral Alvin Holsey, head of U.S. military forces in Latin America, will step down at the end of the year, two years earlier than expected, amid rising friction with Venezuela.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed Holsey’s departure on Thursday, calling it an unexpected move. Sources told Reuters that tensions had grown between the admiral and Hegseth over Caribbean operations, with speculation mounting that he could be dismissed before his resignation was announced.

Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, described the development as “troubling,” warning that it comes as fears of a potential confrontation with Venezuela are increasing. Reed said Holsey’s resignation reflects deeper concerns about Washington’s handling of recent military campaigns and disregard for senior officers’ advice.

Hegseth did not explain the reason behind the resignation of Holsey, one of only two Black four-star officers leading a U.S. combatant command. Holsey said on X that he would retire on December 12 after more than 37 years of service, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve the nation.

The announcement coincides with a U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, featuring guided missile destroyers, F-35 jets, a nuclear submarine and thousands of troops, as President Donald Trump intensifies pressure on Venezuela’s government. U.S. strikes on suspected drug boats off Venezuela have reportedly killed at least 27 people, sparking debate over their legality. The administration maintains that the targets are linked to narcoterrorist groups, calling the operations legitimate.

Adding to the controversy, Trump revealed on Wednesday that he had authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations inside Venezuela, fuelling speculation that Washington seeks to unseat President Nicolas Maduro.

Holsey’s resignation marks another high-level departure under Hegseth’s leadership, following the firings of Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman C.Q. Brown and Navy Chief Lisa Franchetti. Both removals drew attention for their abrupt nature and the seniority of those affected.

Just days earlier, the Pentagon announced that future counter-narcotics missions in the region would no longer be led by the Miami-based Southern Command but by the II Marine Expeditionary Force from North Carolina—a decision that surprised defence analysts.

In his statement, Hegseth thanked Holsey for his service, wishing him and his family “continued success and fulfilment in the years ahead.”

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