1. United States
2. Ind.
3. Letter

Trump needs to face consequences of this strike that goes against international law and our constitution. Congress did not formally authorize the military strikes against Venezuela. • Lawmakers from both parties (including Democrats like Tim Kaine) are publicly criticizing the action as unauthorized and potentially illegal because Trump did not seek or receive an official congressional authorization or declaration of war beforehand. • Some members of Congress have introduced or plan to introduce War Powers or similar resolutions to block or constrain the president’s use of force against Venezuela unless Congress expressly approves. • Rep. Seth Moulton and other lawmakers have explicitly stated that Congress did not authorize the conflict. What consequences a president should face (constitutionally & legally) 1. Congressional consequences Congress has clear remedies: • War Powers Resolution enforcement (forcing withdrawal) • Censure • Defunding the operation • Investigations and subpoenas ⸻ 2. Impeachment Launching an unauthorized war can qualify as: • “High crimes and misdemeanors” • Abuse of power • Violation of constitutional oath Historical context: Impeachment does not require a criminal statute—only a grave abuse of constitutional authority. ⸻ 3. Political consequences • Loss of public trust • Electoral consequences • International damage to U.S. credibility Even if a president avoids removal, history tends to judge unauthorized wars harshly. ⸻ 4. Post-presidency legal exposure (limited but real) While sitting presidents are shielded, after leaving office they could face: • Civil suits (limited but possible) • International legal actions (symbolic but reputationally serious) ⸻ Bottom line If a U.S. president were to launch a major military strike on Venezuela without congressional approval: • ❌ It would likely violate the Constitution • ❌ It would conflict with federal law • ❌ It would undermine democratic checks on war