Retired major general on the legalities of the Trump administration's boat strikes

Interview
Written By David Petri

Major General Steve Lepper, USAF (Ret)

Former Deputy Judge Advocate General for the U.S. Air Force

NPR

December 3, 2025

Major General Steve Lepper, USAF (Ret), joins NPR to analyze Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s push to loosen military rules of engagement and the controversy surrounding recent U.S. boat strikes now under investigation. Lepper explains how firing top military lawyers and prioritizing “maximum lethality” impacted the standards that guide wartime decisions. He breaks down what the Law of War requires, why the disabled vessel in the Caribbean posed no threat, and how second strikes on survivors raise serious legal and moral concerns. A clear, expert look at military accountability, legality, and the consequences of sidelining judge advocates.

Listen on NPR

David Petri

Dave Petri is a marketing and sustainability professional with 30 years of leadership experience across multiple industries. Since 2010, Dave’s professional experience has primarily been in the Outdoor Industry, including industry-wide leadership roles. He launched Cynosura Consulting in 2019 and is the principal consultant, providing his expertise to various companies and organizations in the manufacturing, hospitality, and event management sectors.

https://www.cynosurallc.com
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