U.S. officials say at least two people survived a U.S. military strike on an alleged Venezuelan drug cartel boat in international waters and were rescued by Navy helicopters, then transferred to a U.S. Navy ship. Their custody and condition remain unclear. The strike is the fifth such operation under the Trump administration; four previous attacks killed at least 21 with no survivors. Lawmakers have voiced concern over limited information. On Wednesday, President Donald Trump confirmed authorizing unspecified CIA action in Venezuela. Separately, SOUTHCOM commander Adm. Alvin Holsey said he will retire Dec. 12, after taking the post last November.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.