US lawmakers want to block Trump's possible attack on Venezuela

A group of US congressmen from both the Democratic and Republican parties announce that they will force Congress to vote on President Donald Trump's war powers in the event of a US attack on Venezuelan territory.

They argue that unauthorized military action against Venezuela would needlessly endanger the lives of U.S. troops and want to prevent the deployment of armed forces without congressional approval.

Senators Tim Kaine, Chuck Schumer, Adam Schiff, and Republican Rand Paul have announced that they will introduce a resolution that would trigger debate, a vote, and block the use of armed force against Venezuela in the event of an attack.

US forces have carried out at least 21 attacks on ships allegedly carrying drugs in the Caribbean and Pacific since the beginning of September, killing at least 83 people. Some lawmakers fear the administration is waging a months-long campaign against Nicolás Maduro's government without a mandate from Congress.

Attention has also been drawn to reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a "second strike" on the boats carrying survivors, according to media reports, which may raise questions of compliance with international law. Republican-led congressional committees have therefore announced an investigation into the whole operation.

(reuters, sie)