Senate Blocks Resolution to Curb Trump's Military Authority Over Venezuela

On November 6, 2025, the U.S. Senate narrowly voted 51-49 to block a bipartisan resolution aimed at restricting President Donald Trump's authority to initiate military action against Venezuela without congressional approval. The resolution, introduced by Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), and Rand Paul (R-KY), sought to reaffirm Congress's constitutional role in declaring war. Only two Republican senators, Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), joined Democrats in supporting the measure.

The Senate's decision underscores the ongoing debate over the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in matters of military engagement. This vote comes amid escalating U.S. military activities in the Caribbean, including at least 17 strikes on vessels since early September, resulting in over 65 fatalities. The administration justifies these actions as targeting "narco-terrorists" involved in drug trafficking, though critics question the legal basis and evidence for such strikes.

Since early September 2025, U.S. forces have conducted at least 17 strikes against vessels in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, resulting in over 65 deaths. The administration claims these operations target "narco-terrorists" involved in drug trafficking.

The resolution failed with a 51-49 vote. Senators Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski were the only Republicans to vote in favor, aligning with the Democratic caucus.

Statements from Key Figures:

• Senator Tim Kaine: "The reason the Framers put this decision in the hands of Congress was because of a belief that we should not risk the lives of our service members unless there is a clear political consensus, as expressed by a vote in Congress, that the mission is worth it."

• Senator Adam Schiff: "It's really an open secret that this is much more about potential regime change. If that's where the administration is headed, if that's what we're risking — involvement in a war — then Congress needs to be heard on this."

• Senator Rand Paul: "The executive branch does not have the authority to kill at will anyone, anywhere, at any time, for any reason."

The Trump administration maintains that the military actions are necessary to combat drug trafficking and associated terrorist activities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth briefed congressional leaders, emphasizing that there were no immediate plans for a Venezuelan invasion.

The rejection of the resolution highlights the ongoing debate over the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in matters of military engagement. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires the president to consult with Congress before introducing U.S. armed forces into hostilities. Critics argue that the recent military actions lack proper congressional authorization.

Venezuela has condemned the U.S. military actions, accusing Washington of using anti-drug operations as a pretext for regime change. The Venezuelan government has called for heightened military readiness in response to U.S. activities in the region.

The Senate's decision to block the resolution reflects the complex interplay between executive authority and congressional oversight in U.S. military operations. As the administration continues its military activities in the Caribbean, the debate over the appropriate balance of power and the necessity of congressional approval for military actions is likely to persist.