Joseph Humire

Joseph Humire is a senior defense official within the US Department of Defense, specializing in Latin American security issues. He is newsworthy due to his involvement in two recent, significant events. First, he provided information to Congress regarding US military strikes against alleged drug-trafficking vessels off the coast of Latin America, confirming that at least 157 people have been killed in these operations. These strikes have been described by legal experts as potentially extrajudicial killings. Second, Humire accompanied General Francis Donovan, the top US commander overseeing forces in Latin America, on a surprise visit to Venezuela for security talks. This visit, the first by a US military delegation since the reported capture of Nicolas Maduro by US forces, highlights Humire's current relevance in US foreign policy and security strategy in the region.