Top U.S. Commander Steps Down Amid Venezuela Tensions. In a surprise move, Admiral Alvin Holsey, the top U.S. military commander for Latin America, will step down at the end of the year — two years earlier than planned. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made the announcement on Thursday as tensions with Venezuela continue to escalate. Sources say there were disagreements between Holsey and Hegseth over military operations in the Caribbean, raising speculation that he might have been forced out. Senator Jack Reed, the top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, called the resignation "deeply troubling" amid fears of a potential U.S.–Venezuela confrontation. The news comes as Washington ramps up its military presence in the region — deploying destroyers, fighter jets, a nuclear submarine and thousands of troops. President Donald Trump also confirmed authorizing covert CIA operations inside Venezuela. Holsey, one of only two Black four-star commanders, announced he'll retire on December 12, saying only: "It's been an honor to serve.” Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT