Lawmakers demand answers after the White House cites constitutional authority and secrecy concerns amid reports of a covert operation involving Venezuelan leadership.
By: Haitian Prime News|January 6, 2026|Washington, D.C.
Senior U.S. officials briefed congressional leaders Monday evening as questions intensified over the legality, scope, and consequences of recent U.S. actions in Venezuela.
According to briefing details shared on Capitol Hill, Congress was scheduled to receive a classified update at 5:30 p.m. regarding what the administration has referred to as “Operation Absolute Resolve.” The White House claims the overnight mission resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, though independent verification and operational specifics have not been publicly released.
Administration officials defended their decision to withhold advance notice from Congress, arguing that President Donald Trump acted under constitutional authority to prevent an imminent threat and protect American lives. The White House cited concerns about potential leaks as justification for limiting prior congressional notification.
The move has prompted sharp reactions from lawmakers across the political spectrum. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the approach, stating that while Maduro is “a horrible, horrible person,” unlawful actions should not be answered with further lawlessness. Senator Tom Cotton, however, welcomed the reported outcome, describing Maduro’s removal as “a great day for America.”
The briefing comes at a pivotal moment for Congress, which now faces an immediate decision on war powers. The Senate is expected to vote this week on a bipartisan resolution designed to limit unauthorized military action. A similar measure failed in the House last month, but Schumer has vowed to block future operations conducted without congressional approval.
Analysts warn that developments inside Venezuela could quickly destabilize the country. Political risk analyst Irina Tsukerman cautioned that the most immediate threat is fragmentation, noting that early efforts will likely focus on restoring basic order and essential services. She warned that public anger could rise sharply if living conditions do not improve in the coming weeks.
As of Monday night, the administration had not outlined its next steps in Venezuela. Lawmakers from both parties continue to call for greater transparency as debates intensify over executive power, congressional oversight, and the broader geopolitical implications of U.S. involvement in the region.
Sources:
White House — Official statements and briefing materials referenced by congressional leadership, January 6, 2026
• U.S. Senate — Floor remarks and statements from Senate leadership, including comments by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer
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