The Senate has voted 52-47 on Thursday to push forward legislation that would force President Donald Trump to have congressional approval before any further military action in Venezuela.
The move was considered a sharp criticism of the Trump administration and the first major action to push back against the Trump administration following the military capture of President Nicolás Maduro, according to Politico. The measure was backed by several Republicans, including Susan Collins (R-MA), Todd Young (R-IN) and Josh Hawley (R-MO).
The resolution was cosponsored by Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) and Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), who have attempted to curb the president's maneuvers in the South American country. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) also cast his vote in support of the resolution even after saying he could oppose the move.
The Trump administration has not sought congressional approval for its military actions in Venezuela.
"The vote is a shocking sign of divisions among Republicans on Trump’s plans for the South American country, and an about-face to a November vote on limiting the president that failed. Democrats have promised more tough votes that force Republicans to take a public stance as Trump threatens to seize Greenland and floats military action in Colombia," Politico reported.
