The U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday rejected two resolutions aimed at limiting President Donald Trump’s authority to initiate military action against Venezuela without congressional approval. The resolutions failed to pass with support from Republican lawmakers, and one Democratic vote against.
Congressional Authority and Presidential Power
Representatives Gregory Meeks of New York and Jim McGovern of Massachusetts led the effort to pass the resolutions, which would have required congressional authorization before any military engagement with Venezuela. Following the vote, McGovern released a statement expressing his frustration, accusing legislators of “ceding the constitutional responsibility of Congress in matters of war to an aspiring dictator.”
McGovern’s statement further asserted that President Trump, who campaigned on a promise to end unnecessary foreign conflicts, is now pursuing a course that could lead to “another endless war.” He attributed this to the influence of “billionaire friends in the oil industry.”
Escalating Tensions with Venezuela
The failed resolutions come amid increasing pressure from Washington on Caracas. Since early September, the U.S. has reportedly conducted extrajudicial killings of 95 crew members aboard at least 23 suspected drug smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific. A significant U.S. military deployment in the Caribbean has followed, widely understood to be aimed at forcing the resignation of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
Last week, the U.S. intercepted a Venezuelan oil tanker. Further escalating tensions, the U.S. announced sanctions against six shipping companies transporting Venezuelan oil, as well as six vessels, potentially leading to confiscations. Sanctions were also imposed on three of Maduro’s nephews.
On Tuesday, President Trump ordered a “total blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers” via social media. He stated the naval deployment would continue “until [the Chavismo regime] returns to the United States of America all of the oil, the lands, and other assets” that he claims were stolen. Trump reiterated this position on Wednesday, stating, “The blockade will not let anyone pass who shouldn’t be passing.” In response, Maduro has ordered the Venezuelan Navy to escort oil tankers departing its ports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the U.S. objective in Venezuela?
According to statements made by President Trump, the U.S. seeks the return of “oil, lands, and other assets” allegedly stolen from the United States, and appears to be aiming to force a change in leadership in Venezuela.
What actions has the U.S. already taken against Venezuela?
The U.S. has conducted what are described as extrajudicial killings of individuals aboard suspected drug smuggling vessels, deployed a significant naval force to the Caribbean, intercepted a Venezuelan oil tanker, and imposed sanctions on companies and individuals connected to the Venezuelan government.
What was the outcome of the vote on the resolutions regarding war powers?
Both resolutions were rejected by the House of Representatives, with a combination of Republican votes and one Democratic vote preventing their passage.
Given the current trajectory, will the U.S. continue to escalate pressure on Venezuela, and what form might that escalation take?
