Senate limits Trump's ability to use military force in Venezuela

Independent.co reports that five Republican senators joined Democrats to pass a War Powers Act resolution sponsored by Sen. Tim Kaine aimed at preventing the White House from using resources to support further military action in Venezuela following the capture of the country’s leader Nicolás Maduro, blocking the president from using the military there without authorization from Congress.

The measure passed 52-47, marking one of the largest displays of Republican resistance in President Trump’s second term. Senators who voted with Democrats included Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Rand Paul, Josh Hawley and Todd Young. Hawley said, "This is all about going forward. If the president should determine, you know what, I need to put troops on the ground in Venezuela, I think that wouldn't require Congress." President Trump responded on Truth Social, writing: “Republicans should be ashamed of the Senators that just voted with Democrats...Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, Rand Paul, Josh Hawley, and Todd Young should never be elected to office again.” Lawmakers and critics have warned that White House officials have refused to take the use of U.S.

forces, including a ground invasion, off the table, and have revealed only hints of a solid plan for Venezuela’s future amid questions over who the administration views as the country’s rightful leader, when elections will be held and whether the U.S. has plans regarding Venezuelan oil reserves.

Key Topics

Politics, Donald Trump, Venezuela, Tim Kaine, Nicolas Maduro, War Powers Act