US Seizes Venezuelan Tanker as Senators Warn of War Powers

The United States military and Coast Guard seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, allegedly carrying sanctioned oil. The operation followed previous U.S. military boat strikes in the region. The embassy of Iran in Venezuela condemned the seizure as a grave violation of international laws and norms.

Donald Trump faced immediate backlash from members of Congress regarding the legality of these actions. Senator Cory Booker, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, described the move as reckless adventurism and suggested that military activities in the region could be litigated as war crimes. Booker stated that the president lacks the constitutional authority to declare war, noting that a bipartisan war powers resolution is expected to reach the Senate.

Senator Dick Durbin further questioned the administration's maritime actions, alleging that the president is preparing for an invasion of Venezuela. Durbin argued that any act of war requires the authorization of the American people through Congress. These developments signal a growing legislative effort to constrain presidential military authority in the region.