U.S. lawmakers from both major parties have sharply criticized military operations launched against Venezuela on January 3, 2026, with multiple senators calling the strikes unconstitutional and illegal. The pre-dawn operation reportedly resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, triggering immediate international backlash.
Republican Senator Mike Lee questioned the legal basis for the action, demanding clarity on "what constitutional basis exists to justify this action" without congressional authorization. Democratic Representative Melanie Stansbury called the strikes "a clear violation of constitutional limits," urging immediate legislative intervention.
The criticism highlights rare bipartisan alignment, with Arizona Democrat Ruben Gallego labeling the operation "an illegal war" that positions America as "the world's bully." Utah's Lee joined Democrats in challenging the administration's authority, while Massachusetts Representative Jim McGovern highlighted budgetary contradictions: "We don't have enough money for healthcare… but unlimited funds for war?"
International responses have been swift, with multiple governments condemning the military action. Analysts suggest the developments could reshape regional security dynamics and test longstanding norms of international law.
