Washington, D.C. — The United States Senate moved on Thursday, January 8, 2026 to advance a bipartisan resolution aimed at curbing President Donald Trump’s authority to conduct further military operations against Venezuela without explicit congressional approval. The procedural vote passed 52–47, with all Senate Democrats joined by five Republicans voting to move the war powers measure forward.
The resolution responds to widespread international controversy after U.S. forces carried out a surprise raid in Caracas that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro — a move critics say amounted to an unauthorized escalation of military force. Lawmakers from both parties expressed concern that the executive branch bypassed Congress, a constitutional requirement for prolonged military engagements, and could set a precedent for future interventions.
Senators backing the resolution argued that it reasserts Congress’s war powers under the U.S. Constitution and prevents unchecked military escalation abroad. Opponents, including some Republicans, defended the administration’s actions as limited operational measures that do not constitute an open conflict, and warned that restricting presidential authority could impede national security decisions.
The resolution now faces further debate and additional votes before it could reach President Trump’s desk, where a veto is widely expected. News as reported.
