US Democratic lawmakers expressed anger and distress following the US raid on Venezuela and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. They criticized the lack of prior notification to Congress and accused the Trump administration of deceiving Congress regarding its intentions in Venezuela. Lawmakers demanded an immediate briefing on the operation and the administration’s future plans.
Senator Andy Kim highlighted that Secretary Rubio and Hegseth had misled Congress by denying any intentions of regime change in Venezuela. Democrat Jason Crow echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the administration’s repeated falsehoods about its Venezuela policy. Senator Jeanne Shaheen criticized the administration for consistently withholding information from Congress about the US strategy towards Venezuela.
Senator Chris Coons denounced the administration for providing false information to lawmakers, emphasizing that any military action against a foreign leader should be authorized by Congress. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer condemned the administration for not seeking congressional approval before the Venezuela operation, calling for immediate briefings and transparency.
Democratic Senator Brian Schatz emphasized that the US lacks vital national interests in Venezuela to justify military intervention, warning against hasty military actions. In contrast, Republican lawmakers, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson, expressed support for the administration’s actions, expecting further briefings on the matter.
The US operation in Venezuela and the capture of Maduro have sparked global condemnation and raised concerns about international implications.
