General tapped to lead US operations in Latin America grilled over presence in region
January 15, 2026
The Marine Corps general tapped to lead U.S. military operations in Latin America says he’s ready to oversee an expanded presence but isn’t sure what the Trump administration has planned. At a confirmation hearing Thursday, Lt. Gen. Francis Donovan told lawmakers he isn’t involved in current military planning for the region but expects U.S. Southern Command’s duties will evolve because of its expanded mission. Lawmakers also questioned the nominee to lead the National Security Agency about whether the NSA would ever spy on innocent Americans. The nominee, Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd, said he would follow federal laws that restrict such activities.