Republicans in Congress are showing little interest in limiting President Donald Trump’s war powers as he escalates threats abroad. Trump’s recent military operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro has sparked concern among Democrats and some U.S. allies.
Senator Lindsey Graham, a longtime Trump ally, gave a blunt response when asked if Congress would limit the president’s authority. “No,” Graham told NBC News. His answer reflects the lack of GOP enthusiasm for reclaiming Congress’ constitutional war powers.
Trump has indicated he could take further steps, including the possibility of using ground troops in Venezuela. He also warned other countries about potential U.S. actions, alarming allies worldwide.
The White House maintains that the Venezuela operation was a law enforcement action and did not require congressional approval. Top Republicans have largely supported Trump, labeling Maduro an illegitimate leader.
Senator Jim Risch, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, avoided directly answering whether Trump would need congressional permission for troops in Venezuela. “I don’t want to engage on that conversation right now,” Risch said.
Senator John Kennedy said he has “a squillion” questions about Venezuela but declined three times to state if congressional approval would be needed for ground forces. “We’re a long way from boots on the ground,” he said, noting that each situation is unique.
Trump, speaking on Air Force One, said the U.S. is “not afraid of boots on the ground” in Venezuela and warned of a “second wave” if future leaders fail to “behave.” He also criticized Colombia, calling it “very sick,” like Venezuela.
Trump further issued warnings about Iran, saying the U.S. would respond strongly if Tehran “starts killing people like they have in the past.” He also claimed Cuba is “ready to fall” and repeated his longstanding desire to annex Greenland, citing national security reasons.
Democrats are pushing back. Senator Tim Kaine plans to force a Senate vote on a war powers resolution to restrain Trump’s authority in Venezuela. He called Trump’s actions “illegal” and argued that Venezuela posed no imminent threat to the U.S. “Only Congress can declare war — or authorize the use of military force in hostilities,” Kaine said.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer supports Kaine’s effort. He said Democrats have persuaded some Republicans to back a new war powers resolution, but not enough for a vote. “It’s extremely important now, with a reckless president,” Schumer said.
Some Republicans remain uncertain. Senator Josh Hawley said he expects briefings from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth before forming a judgment. “I just don’t know. I need to hear from them,” Hawley said.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader John Thune downplayed Trump’s Greenland comments. “I don’t see military action being an option there,” Thune said. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later stated that military action remains “an option at the Commander in Chief’s disposal” to protect U.S. interests in the Arctic.
Trump’s rhetoric has prompted domestic debate and global concern. Critics argue that he is acting without clear legal justification, while supporters maintain his actions uphold U.S. interests. The situation underscores the tension between presidential authority and congressional oversight over matters of war.
As Trump signals a willingness to act decisively abroad, Congress remains divided on how to respond. Republicans largely defer to the president, while Democrats push for legal measures to constrain unilateral military action. The standoff raises questions about the balance of power and the U.S.’s approach to international conflicts.
