WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SJRES 5

A joint resolution directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Ukraine that have not been authorized by Congress.

119th Congress Introduced by Rand Paul

Requires the President to withdraw U.S. forces from Ukraine hostilities not authorized by Congress within 30 days (extendable with congressional approval).

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJRES 5

Summary of SJRES 5 (Senate)

Overview and purpose

SJRES 5 is a Senate joint resolution introduced on January 23, 2025, sponsored by Sen. Rand Paul. The bill is titled: “A joint resolution directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Ukraine that have not been authorized by Congress.” Its core intent is to require the withdrawal of U.S. armed forces from hostilities in or affecting Ukraine that have not been explicitly authorized by Congress.

Key provisions

  • Directive to President: The bill directs the President to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities in or affecting Ukraine within a specified timeframe.
  • Timeframe: The withdrawal must occur not later than 30 days after the date of adoption of the joint resolution.
  • Contingency for a later date: The 30-day deadline can be extended if the President requests and Congress authorizes a later date.
  • Authorization prerequisite: The removal requirement applies unless and until a declaration of war or a specific authorization for the use of U.S. Armed Forces has been enacted by Congress.
  • Legal basis cited: The resolution is introduced pursuant to section 1013 of the Department of State Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1984 and 1985 (50 U.S.C. 1546a) and in accordance with section 601(b) of the International Security Assistance and Arms Export Control Act of 1976 (Public Law 94-329; 90 Stat. 765).

Scope and limitations

  • Scope: Applies to hostilities in Ukraine or actions affecting Ukraine.
  • Authorization condition: The withdrawal is contingent on the absence of a war declaration or a specific congressional authorization for ongoing or contemplated use of force.
  • Nature of instrument: A joint resolution (if enacted) would function as a binding directive contingent on enactment and presidential action.

Timeline and procedural status

  • Introduced: January 23, 2025
  • Status: Read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations; introduced in the Senate.
  • Legislative actions to date: Introduction and referral occurred on the same day.
  • Related legislation: SJRES 6 is a companion measure.

Sponsors and related measures

  • Primary sponsor: Rand Paul
  • Related bill: SJRES 6 (companion)

Potential impact and considerations

  • Military posture: If enacted and signed, the resolution would obligate a withdrawal of U.S. forces from Ukraine-related hostilities within 30 days (or a later date if authorized by Congress and requested by the President).
  • Congressional oversight: Establishes a clear demand for congressional authorization for continued or new use of force, potentially increasing legislative control over military engagements.
  • Diplomatic and strategic implications: Could affect ongoing U.S.-Ukraine security assistance and broader alliance dynamics, depending on subsequent actions by Congress and the President.
  • Constitutional and legal questions: As with other war powers measures, there may be debates over the balance of executive and legislative authority in determining and authorizing military engagement.

What to watch

  • Movement through committee: Any hearings or amendments in the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
  • Floor action: Potential votes in the Senate, then possible consideration by the House (via SJRES 6 companion in the other chamber).
  • Presidential response: Whether the President would sign, veto, or otherwise address the resolution.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.