Senate Moves to Restrict Trump’s Military Actions in Venezuela
On Thursday, the Senate put forward a resolution aimed at preventing President Trump from initiating military actions in Venezuela, following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro.
The resolution passed with a 52-47 vote, allowing for a so-called “war powers resolution” that would compel Trump to stop military hostilities against Venezuela effectively.
However, the measure still requires approval from both the House and Senate.
Initially, Republican leaders were strongly against the resolution, which was spearheaded by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.).
Kaine reintroduced the resolution last month, alongside Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.). This was amidst the backdrop of Trump increasing military assets in the region and approving various attacks on alleged drug vessels.
Schumer emphasized the Democratic push to prevent what he described as “military adventurism and endless wars” in Venezuela and beyond, noting that Americans are not looking for extended military engagements.
According to the War Powers Act, Congress is allowed to pass resolutions that limit the president’s ability to engage in military conflicts without legislative approval.
The White House has expressed opposition to this measure, suggesting that it would undermine Trump’s authority as commander in chief.
In a memo, the administration stated, “The actions of our military were directed by the President, consistent with his inherent responsibility to protect the American people both at home and abroad.”
Last year, Congress repealed the Authorization to Use Military Force (AUMF) related to the Gulf War and the 2003 Iraq invasion as part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2026.
The Trump administration characterized the effort to capture Maduro as a law enforcement action, citing federal indictments against prominent Venezuelan figures for drug trafficking and arms violations.
Currently, the Trump campaign appears to be leveraging the Venezuelan oil crisis to urge leader Delcy Rodriguez to implement changes. Still, the approach for restoring democracy in Venezuela remains uncertain.
Trump has not dismissed the possibility of military operations in Venezuela, mentioning his intentions to rebuild the country economically through oil. In a recent interview, he noted, “We end up using oil and ingesting oil,” while claiming it would help lower oil prices and provide much-needed financial support to Venezuela.
Additionally, lawmakers are considering other war powers resolutions aimed at curbing military actions against Iran and addressing the potential purchase of Greenland.
In a separate statement, Paul remarked, “We will do everything in our power to prevent any military takeover of Greenland,” adding that friendly relations should be the focus if there’s genuine interest in acquiring the territory.
