Lawmakers Move to Stop Potential Venezuela Attack

Key Points:

• Resolution Aim: Prevent President Trump from attacking Venezuela without Congress's approval.
• Leading Senators: Tim Kaine, Adam Schiff, and Rand Paul.
• Recent Actions: U.S. strikes on boats near Venezuela's coast despite lacking legal grounds for land attacks.

Background

• Trump's Stance: Hinted at possible land attacks, authorized covert CIA operations, but later denied considering strikes.
• Military Buildup: Significant U.S. military presence in the Caribbean.
• Briefing: Lawmakers told the administration doesn't want war with Venezuela, but Trump's unpredictability remains a concern.

Legal and Political Concerns

• Legal Justification: Strikes on boats do not extend to land attacks.
• Criticism: Congress members from both parties criticize lack of information on casualties, evidence, and operation costs.
• Strikes Details: At least 16 strikes on vessels in the Pacific and southern Caribbean, killing at least 65 people. Administration claims targets were "narco-terrorists," but evidence is scarce.

Constitutional and Congressional Actions

• Constitutional Requirement: Presidential approval from Congress needed for prolonged military operations.
• Senator Adam Schiff: Emphasized the need for Congress to reassert its responsibility.
• Previous Resolution: Failed narrowly; two Republicans supported it, one Democrat opposed.
• Current Resolution: Focuses on potential land strikes, aiming for more Republican support.