- #SOUTHCOM conducted Lethal Kinetic Strike, on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations.
MIAMI, USA – In a ceremony at the Pentagon on February 5, US Marine Gen. Francis L. Donovan assumed command of US Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), succeeding acting commander US Air Force Lt. Gen. Evan L. Pettus.
“It is an honor to assume command of US Southern Command and to lead a warfighting headquarters capable of joint operations at range, speed, and scale with the dedicated men and women who work tirelessly to strengthen security, stability, and partnerships across the Western Hemisphere,” Gen. Donovan said. “Together with our partner nations, we will continue to address shared challenges, uphold democratic values, and ensure a safe and prosperous future for the region.”
General Donovan brings decades of distinguished service and leadership experience to USSOUTHCOM, having previously served as vice commander of US Special Operations Command. An infantry, reconnaissance, and special operations officer, Gen. Donovan has led Marines and Sailors in combat, contingency, and expeditionary operations across the globe, including at sea and ashore.
Throughout his career, Gen. Donovan has commanded units at every level, including a Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance Platoon, Battalion Landing Team, Marine Expeditionary Unit, Marine Expeditionary Brigade, and a Marine Division. He also commanded Naval Task Forces in the US 5th Fleet (CTF 51) and 6th Fleet (CTF 61), demonstrating his expertise in joint and maritime operations.
As the new Commander of USSOUTHCOM, Gen. Donovan will oversee US military operations and engagements across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Lethal Kinetic Strike, February 5, 2026
Meanwhile, on February 5, at the direction of #SOUTHCOM Commander Gen. Francis L.Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations.
Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Two narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No US military forces were harmed.