Lawrence O’Donnell Criticizes Trump for Latest Failed Distraction

On Monday, MSNBC host Lawrence ODonnell sharply criticized President Donald Trump regarding recent U.S. military actions near Venezuela and questioned Defense Department Secretary Pete Hegseth over reported orders to eliminate everyone on a suspected drug-smuggling vessel in September.

ODonnell referred to a Washington Post report detailing the initial strike on September 2. Two survivors were seen clinging to the burning wreckage, he said. Following Hegseths instructions, the special operations commander launched a second strike, resulting in the deaths of both men.

According to the report, Hegseth allegedly directed the U.S. forces to target all individuals aboard the suspected smuggling ship, which led to 11 fatalities near Trinidad. This prompted senators to pledge thorough oversight of the incident.

During his broadcast, ODonnell described these strikes as a deliberate distraction. There is no ongoing war in Venezuela, and there never will be one, he asserted. Trump recklessly toyed with the notion of war to divert attention from the Epstein documents, a tactic that has failed completely.

The Epstein case involves Jeffrey Epstein, who was considered a close associate of Trump, and his death in federal custody in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The release of classified Epstein files has intensified scrutiny of influential figures linked to him.

ODonnell highlighted that the commander responsible for the September attack, Adm. Frank M. Bradley, reportedly justified the second strike by claiming the survivors could have contacted other traffickers. However, the second strike ultimately killed the two men.

He also criticized the White House for its response, noting that the press secretary claimed Adm. Bradley acted independently in ordering the second strike without Hegseths instruction. Trumps immediate reaction is always to deny any knowledge, ODonnell said, pointing out the presidents pattern of deflection. Trump himself claimed ignorance and said he would not have authorized a second strike.

ODonnell cited Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), who received a classified briefing in October, warning that those responsible for the strikes could face prosecution for either war crimes or murder.

The segment painted the military operation as both a reckless action and a failed attempt to shift public attention, reflecting broader criticism of Trumps approach to foreign policy and crisis management.

Author: Benjamin Carter