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.
Description
This resolution would require the removal of U.S. forces from hostilities against Venezuela unless authorized by a declaration of war.
Summary
What it does
This joint resolution would direct the President to remove United States Armed Forces from any hostilities occurring within or against Venezuela. Such military actions would be prohibited unless Congress has specifically enacted a declaration of war or a formal authorization for the use of military force. The measure would not prevent the United States from taking action to defend itself against an armed attack or the threat of an imminent attack.
Who is affected
This joint resolution primarily affects the President of the United States and the U.S. Armed Forces by requiring the termination of military hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress. It also impacts the government of Venezuela, as it addresses the presence and actions of U.S. military forces within its territory or directed against it.
Key provisions
- Termination of unauthorized military involvement. The President is directed to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Venezuela unless Congress has specifically enacted a declaration of war or a formal authorization for the use of military force.
- Preservation of self-defense authorities. The resolution clarifies that its restrictions do not prevent the United States from taking military action to defend against an armed attack or the threat of an imminent armed attack.
Fiscal impact
Not applicable: No CBO cost estimate available
Effective dates
Not applicable: Official Summary does not address effective dates
Relationship to existing law
This joint resolution reinforces the constitutional requirement for a congressional declaration of war or specific statutory authorization before the President may engage U.S. Armed Forces in hostilities, while maintaining the existing legal authority for the United States to defend itself against an imminent armed attack.
Stated purpose
This joint resolution aims to require the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities involving Venezuela unless Congress has specifically authorized such action through a declaration of war or a formal authorization for the use of military force. It clarifies that these restrictions do not limit the ability of the United States to defend against an actual or imminent armed attack.