On Wednesday, Senate Republicans blocked a Democratic effort to halt U.S. military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats off the coast of Venezuela. The resolution, introduced by Senators Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), aimed to limit such military operations unless explicitly authorized by Congress under the War Powers Act. The measure was narrowly defeated in a 48-51 vote.

Senator Schiff argued that the strikes, which have reportedly killed at least 21 people since September, are unconstitutional and risk provoking a broader conflict with Venezuela. He emphasized that no congressional authorization has been given for these actions. The Trump administration defends the strikes as targeting criminal organizations such as Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua, Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel, and El Salvador’s MS-13—groups it classifies as foreign terrorist organizations.

Senator Marco Rubio supported the administration’s actions, calling them justified responses to “imminent threats” posed by the cartels. He argued that the president has the authority to act in defense of national security. However, the strikes drew criticism from both parties. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) questioned the legal and ethical basis of the attacks, demanding transparency and evidence that those targeted were indeed guilty of drug trafficking.

Senator Kaine warned that the White House has refused to share intelligence or provide a legal rationale for the strikes, which he said violates the War Powers Resolution. Without congressional oversight, he argued, the administration’s actions set a dangerous precedent for unchecked military force.

The vote highlighted ongoing friction over the scope of presidential war powers. Critics fear that continued unilateral military actions could erode congressional authority and normalize preemptive force, undermining international law and democratic accountability.