Updating earlier coverage: On January 8, 2026, five Republican senators joined Democrats in a 52-47 procedural vote to advance S.J. Res. 98, prohibiting further US military actions in Venezuela after President Trump's 'Resolución Absoluto' raid capturing Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores—prompting sharp White House rebukes and veto threats.
The Republican-led US Senate's unusual challenge to President Donald Trump continued with the advancement of Sen. Tim Kaine's (D-VA) war powers resolution, invoking Congress's authority to curb unauthorized operations and potential escalations in Venezuela.
Building on the January 3 special forces capture—detailed in prior series coverage—the vote followed briefings on a US stabilization plan involving control of Venezuelan oil sales (30-50 million barrels) to fund recovery. Sens. Susan Collins (R-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Todd Young (R-IN), Rand Paul (R-KY), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) defected, citing risks of 'endless wars' and lack of consultation. Young stated: “President Trump campaigned against endless wars. A prolonged campaign in Venezuela... would be the opposite.” Collins added: “I believe invoking the War Powers Act... is necessary, given the president's statements on... a sustained commitment ‘administering’ Venezuela.”
Trump fired back on social media: “This vote gravely obstructs... national security... Republicans should feel ‘ashamed.’” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer hailed it as a stand against endless wars, while critics like Sen. Markwayne Mullin defended the raid under Article II.
The measure requires final Senate passage next week before the GOP House, where rejection is likely. Trump plans a veto, with override improbable; Democrats eye funding blocks. Most Republicans, including Mitch McConnell, support Trump but worry over indefinite conflict.
