Trump Team Thanks US Media for Venezuela Secrecy, Sparks Press Freedom Debate

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanked US media for withholding advance reports on a Venezuela military strike, citing protection of American lives.
• This praise comes despite Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's restrictive press rules at the Pentagon, reflecting the administration's mistrust of journalists.
• The New York Times and The Washington Post reportedly knew of the raid but delayed reporting to avoid endangering US military personnel.
• Journalists emphasize that news organizations often make independent decisions to withhold sensitive information for national security.
• The incident reignites debate on press freedom, government transparency, and the media's role in balancing national security with public's right to know.

Why It Matters: Trump administration's rare 'thank you' to media for Venezuela secrecy sparks debate on press freedom and national security.