WORLD NEWS FOR MONTENEGRO DIASPORA
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A small group of Republican senators has joined Democrats to force a Senate vote aimed at checking President Donald Trump’s war powers related to US actions involving Venezuela, signaling rare bipartisan resistance to the White House’s expanding use of executive authority.
The effort centers on legislation that would require congressional approval for continued or expanded military operations connected to Venezuela. Supporters argue that the Constitution grants Congress, not the president alone, the power to authorize acts of war, and they say recent US actions risk pulling the country into a deeper conflict without proper oversight.
Democratic lawmakers said the move was necessary to reassert Congress’s role and prevent what they described as an open-ended military engagement. They warned that the administration’s approach could escalate tensions in Latin America and lead to unintended consequences without a clear strategy or legal framework.
The handful of Republicans backing the measure said their support was rooted in principle rather than politics. Several emphasized that regardless of party, presidents should not be allowed to bypass Congress on matters of war and peace. One senator described the vote as a “constitutional check,” not a rebuke of the military or US personnel.
The White House has defended its actions, arguing that the president has broad authority to act in the interest of national security and regional stability. Administration officials have also downplayed the Senate effort, suggesting it would not meaningfully constrain the president’s ability to respond to threats.
The measure faces an uncertain future, as Republican leadership remains largely aligned with Trump and may seek to block or weaken the resolution. Still, its advancement reflects growing unease among some lawmakers about the scope of executive power and the lack of clarity surrounding US objectives in Venezuela.
Even if the effort ultimately falls short, analysts say the bipartisan support sends a clear signal of congressional frustration and could shape future debates over presidential war powers, particularly as US foreign policy becomes increasingly assertive on multiple fronts.
Author: M.J
