Senate Moves to Address War Powers Regarding Venezuela

Senator Tim Kaine plans to refile a war powers resolution requiring congressional approval for any military action in Venezuela. In a recent interview on CBS News' Face the Nation, Kaine expressed optimism that this resolution would garner increased bipartisan support compared to previous attempts.

He highlighted the recent buildup of military forces in the region and expressed concern over President Trump's remarks about potentially closing airspace over Venezuela, which he views as indicative of a possible military intervention.

Kaine referenced a recent Washington Post report alleging that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered a second strike on an alleged drug boat in the Caribbean, which left survivors clinging to wreckage after an initial attack.

He called this incident alarming and suggested it could rise to the level of a war crime if true. Hegseth, however, denied the allegations, labeling them as fake news and asserting that the military actions against drug boats are lawful.

Kaine noted that he previously introduced a resolution aimed at halting strikes against alleged drug boats, which he deemed illegal. He believes that the changing circumstances, including the recent revelations regarding military actions, will prompt more congressional support for his war powers resolution.

Furthermore, Kaine mentioned that in past votes, he successfully garnered support from two Republicans for similar motions, indicating a potential shift in sentiment among Republican lawmakers. House Republican Mike Turner also weighed in on the discussion, stating that if the reported second strike on the drug boat occurred, it would constitute an illegal act.

Turner, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, emphasized that Congress has not been provided with information supporting these claims, and he acknowledged that investigations are currently underway.

He raised concerns about the legality of the Trump administration's justification for the military actions against the alleged drug boats, highlighting the serious implications of the new information presented.

Turner noted that the legality of these military operations has sparked significant debate among lawmakers, and he stressed the importance of transparency and adherence to legal frameworks in military engagements.

As Kaine moves forward with his resolution, it reflects broader concerns about U.S. military involvement abroad and the necessity for legislative oversight in military actions, particularly as tensions escalate in Venezuela.

Kaine, alongside colleagues like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senator Rand Paul, and Senator Adam Schiff, is prepared to act swiftly should any military action occur in Venezuela, reinforcing the need for congressional approval to maintain checks and balances in U.S. military policy.