Senate Advances War Powers Resolution Amid Venezuela Military Actions

The U.S. Senate has advanced a resolution aimed at restricting President Donald Trump's ability to conduct further military operations in Venezuela without congressional approval. The measure passed with a 52-47 vote, with five Republican senators—Rand Paul, Todd Young, Lisa Murkowski, Josh Hawley, and Susan Collins—joining Democrats in support.

The resolution follows a recent U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Critics have expressed concern over the administration's unilateral military actions and the potential for prolonged involvement in the region. Senator Tim Kaine, a co-sponsor of the resolution, emphasized the constitutional requirement for congressional authorization before engaging in acts of war.

President Trump criticized the Republican senators who supported the measure, stating they "should never be elected to office again." He argued that the resolution hampers national security and impedes the president's authority as commander in chief.

In a related development, Venezuela's National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez announced the release of a significant number of political prisoners, including both Venezuelan citizens and foreign nationals. Among those released was Rocío San Miguel, a prominent human rights activist. Rodríguez described the move as a gesture to "consolidate peace" following the recent U.S. military actions.

Human rights organizations have cautiously welcomed the releases but noted that hundreds of political prisoners remain detained in Venezuela. The situation continues to evolve as both U.S. and Venezuelan authorities navigate the complex political landscape.