U.S. Troops Reportedly Required To Sign NDA Before Taking Part In Campaign In The Caribbean

U.S. troops are being required to sign non-disclosure agreements before taking part in the military campaign in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, according to a new report.

Reuters noted that the step is highly unusual, considering the troops are already required to not disclose security secrets. Officials told the outlet that they didn't know how many people had been required to sign the document. They did not describe the nature of the document.

The report comes shortly after the resignation of Southern Command (Southcom) head Alvin Holsey, who stepped down from his post in mid-October after reportedly raising concerns about the strikes in the region to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Citing anonymous sources, The New York Times detailed that Holsey had particularly showed concern about the strikes against alleged drug boats, which have killed at least 50 people.

Reuters also noted that Hegseth has sought to heavily contain the flow of information coming from the Pentagon, telling staff that they have to get permission before interacting with members of Congress. He has also imposed restrictions on press, which have been rejected by several outlets, leading to the removal of their credentials.

Several lawmakers have criticized the lack of information given about the campaign. The latest one to do so was Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, who told ABC News that Trump officials were "tying themselves in knots trying to explain this."

"We had a lot of questions for them, both Democrats and Republicans. It was not a good meeting. It did not go well."

The Arizona senator went on to criticize the possibility of conducting land attacks in Venezuela, especially after the Trump administration sent the USS Ford aircraft carrier to the region.

Across the aisle, even though most Republicans have backed the government's explanation and not requested more information, some cracks are appearing in the caucus.

Sen. Todd Young said last week he is seeking to "learn more" about the campaign. Speaking to Axios, Young said "Congress isn't hearing enough — in any form, including a public forum." He went on to say that lawmakers need to be involved in the discussion of legal ramifications of the strikes.

Sen. Rand Paul is also looking for more information. In fact, he joined a bill introduced by Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, which will force a vote to stop Trump from unilaterally declaring war on the South American country.

However, most of the GOP stands by the president, with Senate Foreign Relations Chair James Risch saying has no plans "at this time" to hold the hearings. He told Axios he has been "briefed on it and feel comfortable with where we are."