UPDATE: A crucial vote on the War Powers Resolution is set for Thursday in the Senate, aiming to limit President Donald Trump’s military authority regarding Venezuela. This bipartisan effort comes amid rising concerns over U.S. military actions in the region, with lawmakers pushing back against potential escalations.
The proposed resolution would require explicit congressional authorization before any further military engagement in Venezuela, reflecting a growing urgency among lawmakers. If passed, this measure would mark a significant shift in how Congress asserts its war powers, following a similar attempt that failed late last year.
Key supporters include Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia and Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, but it remains uncertain whether the proposal has enough backing to clear both chambers. The urgency is palpable, as discussions intensify not only about Venezuela but also about potential military operations in neighboring countries such as Colombia and Cuba, as well as places further afield like Iran.
Lawmakers are increasingly wary of the Trump administration’s expansive military rhetoric. In recent days, White House adviser Stephen Miller stated that the U.S. military presence off the coast of Venezuela establishes a strategic advantage, declaring, “By definition we are in charge because we have the United States military stationed outside the country.”
Concerns are mounting about the implications of unilateral military actions, with experts like David Janovsky from the Project On Government Oversight noting a troubling trend of presidents bypassing Congress. He emphasized that while Article One of the Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war, there is a historical reluctance among lawmakers to assert this authority due to fears of appearing weak.
President Trump has maintained that the U.S. is not at war with Venezuela, arguing that informing Congress of military strategies could risk sensitive information leaking. However, the potential enactment of this War Powers Resolution could significantly reshape U.S. engagement strategies not just in Venezuela but throughout the Americas.
As Congress prepares for this critical vote, the outcome could alter the landscape of U.S. military policy, influencing future decisions on military force abroad and setting a precedent for how the executive branch interacts with legislative authority.
Stay tuned for live updates as this developing story unfolds.
