WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump outlined a proposed approach to Venezuela’s oil resources as the U.S. Senate advanced a measure aimed at limiting presidential authority to carry out future military strikes, developments that followed the reported capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro during an overnight operation.
Trump discussed Venezuela during remarks on U.S. energy and foreign policy, focusing on the country’s oil reserves and potential changes in how Venezuelan crude could enter global markets. He said U.S. policy could prioritize access to Venezuelan oil supplies and referenced possible adjustments to restrictions tied to production levels and cooperation with U.S. companies.
The president said Venezuela’s oil sector could play a role in broader U.S. energy strategy and in competition with other oil-producing nations. He also referred to the country’s proven reserves and suggested that closer energy ties could affect regional dynamics in Latin America.
At the same time, senators from both parties moved forward with a war powers proposal that would increase congressional oversight of future military strikes. The measure gained momentum after reports of Maduro’s capture, prompting lawmakers to question the legal basis of the operation and the scope of presidential authority to conduct military actions without prior congressional approval.
Several Democratic senators said recent events highlighted what they described as an expanded use of military force without explicit authorization from Congress. They cited the Constitution’s provision granting Congress the power to declare war and called for clearer limits on unilateral executive action.
One Republican senator joined Democrats in supporting the proposal, saying it was necessary to reinforce the separation of powers. He said military actions, including targeted operations, should be subject to greater congressional scrutiny.
