Two House votes clear path for continued US military action in the Caribbean
The US House of Representatives has defeated attempts to restrict President Donald Trump’s military moves regarding Venezuela, voting down two resolutions led by Democrats that aimed to curb the administration’s use of force.
These measures were brought forward using the War Powers Resolution, a mechanism enabling Congress to contest military campaigns not explicitly authorized by the legislature.
The initial resolution aimed to stop current US attacks on vessels in the Caribbean Sea that the Trump administration labels as connected to cartels or “narcoterrorist” groups. It was defeated 210–216, lacking a majority even with almost unanimous Democratic backing and a few Republicans breaking ranks.
A second proposal, designed to prevent any fresh military action “within or against Venezuela” without a congressional declaration of war or specific authorization, was similarly turned back in a close 211–213 vote.
These outcomes allow President Trump to proceed with US maritime strikes and other enforcement measures as part of his pressure strategy against Caracas, including steps related to the recently declared US blockade on Venezuelan oil exports.
Beginning in September, US military operations have targeted suspected drug traffickers at sea, resulting in over 90 deaths in missions aimed at what Washington calls cartel-linked boats. Trump has further warned he could carry out strikes on Venezuelan soil, charging Caracas with sheltering “narcoterrorists” – claims rejected by the Venezuelan government.