Demand Congressional Investigation into Illegal Military Strike on Venezuelan Civilians

I am writing to express my deep concern and outrage over the recent U.S. military airstrike on a boat near Venezuela, which resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals. This action, defended by Vice President JD Vance as the "highest and best use of our military," is a grave violation of international law and our nation's principles. The Trump administration's decision to conduct this strike, allegedly targeting drug traffickers, sets a dangerous precedent. It blurs the line between law enforcement and military action, potentially constituting an act of war against a sovereign nation. The fact that administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, have indicated this may not be an isolated incident is even more alarming. I urge you to immediately initiate a thorough congressional investigation into the legality and justification of this military action. Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has already called for such an inquiry, and I implore you to join this effort. We must determine whether this strike violated international law, exceeded presidential authority, or constituted a war crime. Furthermore, I request that you take action to prevent any future unauthorized military operations against civilians of other countries. The executive branch must be held accountable for its actions, especially when they involve the use of lethal force outside of declared war zones. The recent executive order to rebrand the Department of Defense as the "Department of War" is a troubling symbol of this administration's cavalier attitude towards military action. We must reaffirm our commitment to diplomacy, international law, and the proper use of our armed forces. As your constituent, I demand that you use your position to protect our nation's integrity and uphold our commitment to human rights and the rule of law. Please take immediate action to investigate this incident, hold those responsible accountable, and prevent any further unauthorized military strikes against civilians.