Democratic lawmakers have criticized President Trump for allegedly ordering military actions in Venezuela, particularly regarding the detainment of President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores.
Instead of commending the capture of Maduro, who is wanted on drug charges in the U.S., some members of Congress argue that Trump acted outside his authority by not obtaining Congressional consent before resorting to military force.
The Trump administration defends its approach, suggesting that seeking approval would compromise the operational secrecy required for such interventions.
“This attack does not represent strength and lacks a solid foreign policy,” commented Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.), adding that it endangers American citizens in Venezuela and could set a dangerous precedent for foreign engagements.
Meanwhile, Representative Darren Soto (D-Fla.) viewed Maduro’s capture as a positive move toward a democratic Venezuela, yet expressed concern over the legality of the attacks, criticizing Trump’s failure to consult Congress.
Soto emphasized the need for Congress to hold in-depth discussions about the attack and the future of democracy in Venezuela.
Representative Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) also highlighted the importance of Congressional approval, mentioning that Venezuela posed no immediate threat to the U.S. and criticizing the operation as a reckless endeavor that could jeopardize American lives.
Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), who frequently comments on constitutional matters, voiced his opposition as well. He remarked that the military’s involvement was ostensibly to carry out an arrest warrant against Maduro and suggested that the President was operating within his constitutional rights to protect U.S. forces.
During a news briefing at Mar-a-Lago, Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained that keeping the operation classified was crucial to avoid tipping off Venezuelan authorities. The President noted that Congressional members have a tendency to leak sensitive information.
