A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress.

119th Congress Introduced by Richard Blumenthal and 18 co-sponsors

SJRES 90 ensures U.S. military actions in Venezuela require congressional approval, protecting service members and promoting transparency in military engagement.

Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations made. (Pursuant to the Arms Export Control Act of 1976). (consideration: CR S7945-7958)

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SJRES 90
Title: A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela that have not been authorized by Congress.
Introduced: October 16, 2025
Status: Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations made.
Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SJRES 90 is to reaffirm Congress's constitutional authority to declare war and to ensure that any military engagement involving U.S. Armed Forces in Venezuela is subject to congressional approval. The resolution seeks to prevent unauthorized military actions against Venezuela, emphasizing the need for transparency and public debate regarding U.S. military involvement.

Key Provisions

Congressional Authority: The resolution asserts that only Congress has the power to declare war, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 of the U.S. Constitution.

Lack of Authorization: It notes that Congress has not declared war against Venezuela nor provided specific authorization for military force in that region.

Definition of Hostilities: The resolution defines U.S. Armed Forces' actions in Venezuela as hostilities or as situations indicating imminent involvement in hostilities, as per the War Powers Resolution.

Concerns Over Covert Operations: It highlights concerns regarding the CIA's covert operations and the increased military presence near Venezuela, suggesting these actions may lead to direct military conflict.

Call for Congressional Debate: The resolution calls for a full briefing to Congress and the public, followed by a debate and vote on any military engagement in Venezuela.

Affected Parties

U.S. Armed Forces: The resolution directly impacts military personnel by limiting their engagement in hostilities without congressional authorization.

Congress: It reinforces Congress's role in decisions regarding military action, requiring legislative oversight and public discourse.

Venezuelan Government and Citizens: The resolution indirectly affects the Venezuelan government and its citizens by addressing U.S. military actions and potential interventions.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

October 16, 2025: SJRES 90 was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

November 6, 2025: A motion to discharge the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations was made but subsequently rejected by a vote of 49-51.

The resolution is currently in the legislative process, pending further consideration.

Conclusion

SJRES 90 seeks to ensure that any military actions involving the U.S. Armed Forces in Venezuela are conducted with proper congressional authorization. By emphasizing the need for legislative oversight, the resolution aims to uphold constitutional principles regarding military engagement and protect the interests of both U.S. service members and the Venezuelan populace.

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