Updating coverage in the Trump Venezuela Intervention series: On January 8, 2026, the US Senate voted 52-47 in a procedural step to advance S.J. Res. 98, prohibiting additional military actions after President Trump's raid capturing Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores. Five Republicans joined Democrats over escalation fears, as Latin American leaders condemned the moves and oil prices dipped on supply concerns.
The Senate's rare bipartisan rebuke to President Trump gained procedural approval Thursday, invoking the War Powers Act against indefinite US administration of Venezuela. Sponsored by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), the resolution—supported by Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Todd Young (R-IN), Rand Paul (R-KY), and Josh Hawley (R-MO)—highlights lack of congressional input post the January 3 special forces raid detailed in prior series coverage.
Young noted Trump campaigned against 'endless wars,' warning a prolonged Venezuela campaign contradicts that stance. Collins stressed the need for War Powers oversight amid plans for sustained commitment. Trump lashed out on social media, calling the vote a national security obstruction and shaming the Republicans involved, while vowing a veto.
Global ripples intensified: Brazil's Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Mexico's Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the attacks, urging cooperation with Caracas for stability. Colombia's Gustavo Petro held an hour-long call with Trump, agreeing to White House talks and planning a meeting with Delcy Rodríguez for reconciliation; Bogotá offered US-Venezuela mediation.
US stabilization includes seizing 30-50 million barrels of Venezuelan oil for sale to fund recovery, already pressuring markets—Brent crude fell 1.22% to $59.96 amid oversupply fears. The measure heads to final Senate vote next week, likely House rejection, and certain veto; Democrats consider funding levers amid mostly Republican support.
