For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

January 3, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

PLASKETT STATEMENT ON U.S. MILITARY ACTION IN VENEZUELA AND FAA AIRSPACE CLOSURE

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-USVI) released the following statement today regarding military action in Venezuela and the closure of airspace covering Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA):

"I was informed that the FAA issued a security order closing airspace at all altitudes in the flight region of military action in Venezuela. I urge all Virgin Islanders and travelers to contact their airlines directly for updates on flight schedules and travel arrangements.

"The safety and security of Virgin Islanders and all Americans remains my top priority. Given the U.S. Virgin Islands' proximity to Venezuela and our position in the Caribbean, I will make sure to keep Virgin Islanders informed. As a member of the Intelligence Committee, I will await any briefing to Committee members from the administration and share what information I am able to give to the public.

“Additionally, my office has spoken with a regional representative from the U.S. Postal Service who has informed us that all Priority and Priority Express packages inbound and outbound will not arrive or be delivered today due to the airspace restriction. The U.S. Postal service assured my office that they will work diligently to rectify the interruption once the airspace reopens.

"My office will continue to monitor this developing situation closely and provide updates to constituents as more information becomes available."

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Quigley Statement on Venezuela

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement on Trump’s attack on Venezuela:

“For months, Donald Trump has touted himself as the president for peace. Yet overnight, he committed a drastic act of war against Venezuela and has pledged that the United States will be ‘running’ Venezuela and is prepared to make additional strikes. The last thing the American people want is to be involved in another forever war. Maduro is a brutal dictator, but as a nation, we know that ousting a foreign ruler often makes things much worse. The people of Venezuela deserve to determine their own future — without foreign intervention.

“Trump’s actions are a blatant violation of U.S. and international law. He is desperate to distract the American people from his failing domestic policies and numerous scandals.

“I have called on Congress to reassert its Constitutional power with this administration for months. When Secretaries Hegseth and Rubio briefed Congress on military action against Venezuela, they blatantly lied about the administration’s intentions. Congress must demand that Trump receive Congressional authority before any additional actions in Venezuela. It is time to restore the authority of the Constitution.”


Congresswoman Ramirez Slams Trump’s War Crimes in Venezuela, Demands Congress Act

Washington, DC—Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) released the following statement:

“Today’s military operation in Venezuela and the kidnapping of Nicolás Maduro are illegal, dangerous violations of international and US law that put us all at risk. The Trump Administration is continuing an agenda of US interventionism in Latin America that has only led to human rights violations, democratic backsliding, economic destabilization, deep poverty, genocide, and mass migration. History has shown us that peace and democracy in Latin America have never been realized through unauthorized United States military intervention.

Trump and his administration have consolidated power and committed war crimes to seize Venezuelan oil and pursue regime change in line with their imperialistic agenda in the Western Hemisphere. And many Americans woke up to a sick sense of deja vu. Under the guise of liberty, an administration of warmongers has lied to justify an invasion and is dragging us into an illegal, endless war so they can extract resources and expand their wealth. And we know that the violence and destabilization that Trump has started in Venezuela will not end there. How Congress responds matters.

Congress can't keep turning a blind eye. From the start of the Trump Administration, my Republican colleagues have willingly given up the powers and authority of Congress. They voted against asserting our war powers. They have made excuses for their supreme leader’s gross violations of the law and abuses of power. In their cowardice, they have failed to protect our democracy, the rule of law, and the American people. ENOUGH!

Trump and his Administration are out of control because they believe they are untouchable. But they are not. There are mechanisms in place to protect Americans from despots, warmongers, and authoritarians. Congress must use them. We must pass Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s War Powers Resolution that asserts our authorities, and Trump must be impeached.”


Rep. Randall Statement on Unauthorized Military Actions in Venezuela

BREMERTON, WA — Following last night’s unauthorized military actions taken by the Trump administration in Venezuela, Congresswoman Emily Randall (D, WA-06) released this statement:

“The world is watching as Trump illegally stokes the fires of war for his own personal gain. Bypassing Congressional authorization — or at the very least notification — to kidnap a foreign leader and force a regime change in order to extract oil resources is unconstitutional.

“These latest unauthorized military actions in Venezuela have nothing to do with keeping Americans safe, nothing to do with lowering the cost of living, nothing to do with building an economy that is better for all of us. They have everything to do with enriching his circle of oil executives and donors.

“Trump has no respect for our enlisted and active duty military members who are being asked, yet again, to carry out unconstitutional orders, to engage in a combat mission that isn’t about national security but is about self-interest.

“The military families in Washington state do not want to be dragged into another endless war where countless American lives will be put at risk. They deserve better from their President. We all deserve better. As a Member of Congress, I will work tirelessly to hold this Administration accountable, to center the needs of my neighbors, my constituents, and our future.”

Audio of Rep. Randall reading her statement is available HERE.


Reschenthaler Applauds President Trump's Decisive Action Against Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) issued the following statement regarding the U.S. military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of Nicolas Maduro:

“President Trump and our nation’s warfighters successfully executed an operation to bring Nicolas Maduro to justice. Maduro is an indicted narco-terrorist who enabled the ruthless Venezuelan cartels that funnel lethal drugs into the United States. This precise and decisive action demonstrates to our adversaries what happens when you place Americans in danger. President Trump has once again made our nation safer.”


Congresswoman Luz Rivas Responds to Trump’s Illegal Act of War in Venezuela

LOS ANGELES — Congresswoman Luz Rivas (CA-29) released the following statement after President Donald Trump launched an illegal and unconstitutional attack on Venezuela:

"Donald Trump’s reckless attack on Venezuela is unconstitutional and an illegal act of war.

"By circumventing Congress, Trump is putting more American and Venezuelan lives in harm’s way. Congress needs to immediately vote on a War Powers Resolution to stop Trump from abusing power.

"The American people do not want another war – and the American people deserve answers and a say on acts of war. Congress must be fully briefed on these recent actions, as well as Trump’s intentions and end goal for a long-term occupation of Venezuela.

"Our nation must not begin a new forever war."

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Rep. Kelly condemns President Trump’s shortsighted attack on Venezuela

CHICAGO – U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) condemned President Donald Trump’s attack on Venezuela in the following statement:

“Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate ruler who oppressed the people of Venezuela. But President Trump’s unilateral decision to attempt a regime change in Venezuela is shortsighted and drags the U.S. into a reckless conflict that could destabilize the entire region. I demand a vote on the War Powers Resolution to stop President Trump from launching further military action without Congressional approval.

“The American people did not ask to be involved in another foreign conflict, but President Trump now wants to ‘run the country.’ The President needs to stop acting like a dictator and start improving the lives of Americans, including people who actually voted for him. That is how a democracy should work. But President Trump’s attack on Venezuela does nothing to lower the cost of living for Americans and does everything to enrich himself and his billionaire oil-executive friends. Our focus should be here at home, lowering costs of healthcare, housing, and groceries.”


Congresswoman Ross Statement on Trump Administration’s Actions in Venezuela

Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement:

“Last night, Donald Trump authorized a military operation to enact regime change in Venezuela. He acted without regard for the constitution and without considering the long-term consequences for our security or our democracy.

“To be clear, Maduro is a despot who stole elections, imprisoned his political opponents, and trampled on the rights and dignity of his people. But the Trump administration cannot unilaterally impose regime change and push the United States to the brink of war. This action endangers our citizens and democracy around the world.

“Using military force to remove a foreign head of state unquestionably requires congressional authorization. Trump ignored that requirement, once again thumbing his nose at our constitution and Congress. At a minimum, Congress must be fully and transparently briefed and then take appropriate action.”

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Rep. Sara Jacobs Statement on U.S. Capture of President Maduro

Following the announcement that the United States launched illegal and unauthorized military strikes and a military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Rep. Sara Jacobs released the following statement:

“Kidnapping President Maduro in a regime change operation won’t help protect the American people. It won’t actually mitigate drug trafficking in the United States: Venezuela plays virtually no role in producing or trafficking fentanyl. Instead, this military operation violates both domestic and international law, risks blowback and retaliation on U.S. service members and the American people, and entangles the United States in yet another costly and unnecessary war by the President who campaigned on ending them.

“President Trump has learned absolutely nothing from past foreign policy failures. In fact, he is now repeating the worst of them: championing the same neoconservative arguments that led to the invasion of Iraq and toppling of Gaddafi. History shows that military action seldom stops with removing a dictator; President Trump is already talking about ‘running the country,’ which means starting a doomed nation building project that will inevitably lead to boots on the ground and bleed taxpayer dollars. We cannot create stability for the American people at gunpoint. Instead, these actions just put American lives at risk, give our adversaries a powerful recruiting tool for generations, and cause ripple effects of instability.

“I strongly urge President Trump to abstain from further unauthorized actions and any occupation of Venezuela. Next week, the Senate will vote on a resolution to block U.S. military action against Venezuela absent authorization by Congress, and the House of Representatives must do the same. And the American people deserve answers, so Congress must be briefed by Secretary Rubio, Secretary Hegseth, and our intelligence leaders as soon as possible.”


Schakowsky Statement on U.S. Unauthorized Attack on Venezuela

EVANSTON - Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement on the unauthorized attack by the Trump administration against Venezuela:

"I strongly condemn Trump’s unilateral strikes and regime-change efforts in Venezuela, which was carried out without Congress and in violation of international law.

"Simply put, this is about oil and enriching himself and his billionaire donors. The American people don’t want another war for oil."

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Congresswoman Schrier's Statement on the Trump Administration's Military Operation in Venezuela

Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), released the following statement on the Trump Administration's Military Operation in Venezuela.

"While Maduro is an illegitimate and dangerous dictator who has made life terrible for Venezuelans, President Trump should not be dragging us into another foreign conflict without consultation and consent from Congress. After promising no new wars, he launched a large-scale military strike in Venezuela with plans for the U.S. to take over control of the country, and put American troops in harm’s way.

"The American people deserve answers, especially at a time when the president should be focused on running our own country and making life better for Americans.

"The Administration must brief Congress and answer multiple remaining and pressing questions."


Rep. Peters’ Statement on Trump’s Military Action in Venezuela

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-50) issued the following statement after President Trump’s announcement that the U.S. conducted a large-scale military operation in Venezuela overnight, capturing President Nicolás Maduro and his wife:

“I was deeply alarmed to wake up to the news that the United States has invaded—and now taken over—Venezuela.

“Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate dictator who has caused immense suffering for the Venezuelan people. But Venezuela does not pose a security cost to the United States that would justify this action. It seems to be a move on Venezuelan oil resources. We know from the pardon of former Honduran President Hernandez that bringing Maduro to justice on drug charges is a pretext.

“And while many Venezuelans and Americans hoped to see Maduro gone, we know that ‘running a country’ will have ongoing costs. We know that from the two decades and trillions of dollars we gave in the Middle East. President Trump has now pulled the U.S. into another conflict that polling shows Americans overwhelmingly oppose. And after decades of endless wars, we do not need another one.

“In San Diego, a proud military community, we know better than most the costs of military action for our service members and their families back home. That’s why we are particularly suspicious of impulsive military decisions with unclear objectives. We are grateful that no U.S. service members were killed and that the mission went as planned, but we are concerned about the undefined mission ahead.

“From the President’s press conference, it’s clear that there is no strategy for going forward. Capturing a leader is not a plan. Without a defined endgame, this action risks prolonged instability, unpredictable escalation, and U.S. casualties on the ground.

“Congress is vested by the Constitution with the power to declare war, but Congress was not notified of this action ahead of time. Ordering a major military operation without Congress is not only dangerous but unconstitutional. That’s why I voted for the War Powers Resolution to reaffirm that the president does not have the authority to take military action in Venezuela.

“It’s time for the Administration to brief Congress on this action and the strategy going forward. Donald Trump continues to make our country weaker by losing friends and gaining enemies around the world. We need to prevent this from becoming another ill-conceived nation-building debacle.”

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Rep. Sewell Statement on President Trump's Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela

Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) released the following statement regarding President Trump's unauthorized military action in Venezuela:

"There is no doubt that Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate and corrupt leader, but President Trump does NOT have the authority to unilaterally invade a sovereign country, capture its leader, and haul them back to the United States. His reckless actions threaten to further destabilize the region and put our troops in harm's way while dragging us into another regime-change war against the will of the American people. The fact that he did so without even briefing Congress, let alone seeking congressional approval—as required by the Constitution—is extremely alarming and sets a dangerous precedent.

"The Trump Administration must immediately explain to Congress and the American people why such an attack was justified and how it plans to ensure stability in the region."

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Rep. Brown Statement on Trump Administration’s Escalating Actions in Venezuela

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Shontel M. Brown (OH-11) today issued a statement after the Trump Administration announced an overnight military operation in Venezuela, including air strikes and the capture and extradition of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

“This President is out of control. Trump’s unhinged remarks this morning make it clear that this White House is lawless, reckless, and already in over their head. I am profoundly worried by what could happen next, because Trump told us he would be a dictator on day one. This madness must stop before we endanger American lives.

“I have no sympathy for Nicolás Maduro or his corrupt regime. But that is not the point. The point is that the President does not get to drag our country into war on his own. The Constitution is clear: Only Congress has the power to declare war. The American people deserve answers,” said Congresswoman Brown

“What threat was so immediate and so serious that we had to take military action — and why hasn’t the President explained it to the American people? Why did President Trump pardon an ex-Honduran president convicted of drug trafficking, using drug trafficking as the rationale to invade Venezuela? What is the objective? What is the strategy? What is the plan for what happens next? And how is this important for the American people?

“War in Venezuela is not in our national interest. I am extremely concerned that this reckless and chaotic administration is once again putting our country on a dangerous path, without a plan, without accountability, and without the consent of the American people.” Congresswoman Brown added.

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Congresswoman Lateefah Simon’s Statement on President Trump’s Illegal Bombing of Venezuela and Capture of President Nicolás Maduro

Oakland, CA – Congresswoman Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12) released the following statement:

"The President launched a war last night without the consent of Congress. That is unconstitutional and illegal.

Three weeks ago, Congressman Jim McGovern brought a War Powers resolution to the House floor to prevent exactly this. It failed 211 to 213. Two votes. I voted for the resolution, which would have directed President Trump to cease hostilities in Venezuela, because I knew this moment was coming. Last night, the United States bombed a sovereign nation and seized its president to stand trial in New York. This is illegal under the Constitution.

“The administration claims this is about drugs. On December 17, the President said on camera that he wants Venezuela’s oil back. His words: 'They took our oil rights. We want it back.' This is a war being sold to the American people under false pretenses.

“Almost exactly thirty-six years ago, the U.S. invaded Panama and arrested Manuel Noriega. 24,000 U.S. troops were sent to Panama. Same ‘justification.’ Same playbook. The UN General Assembly condemned U.S. invasion as a violation of international law. Hundreds of civilians died. We learned nothing. Now the U.S. is committing the same mistakes, invading a nation of 30 million people.

“This administration tells Americans there is no money for housing. No money for health care. No money to feed hungry children. But there is always money for war. Congress must reassert its Constitutional power to declare war and reign in this Administration. We must use every tool to hold this President accountable and to defend the principle that in the U.S., we do not let one man choose war."

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Rep. Smucker Statement on Venezuela

Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) released the following statement in response to the situation in Venezuela:

"Nicolás Maduro is a narcoterrorist who has led an oppressive dictatorship and has been indicted for crimes committed against Americans. He will now stand trial. President Trump’s decisive action protects American lives. I am deeply grateful for the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces, including those who carried out this mission. We pray for their continued safety. I look forward to future congressional briefings on this matter."

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Stanton Statement on Actions in Venezuela

PHOENIX—U.S. Congressman Greg Stanton today released the following statement.

“Maduro’s illegitimate presidency shattered Venezuela and ran its economy into the ground. But the U.S. Constitution and federal law make clear: presidents must have authorization from Congress for war or acts of war.

The President’s actions are not only illegal, but they also reflect decades of bad policy foreign policy decisions where regime change has quickly led to chaos or worse conditions. We cannot let U.S. foreign policy serve as a green light for authoritarians around the world who seek to dominate their own neighbors by force, especially countries like Russia and China.”


Haley Stevens Statement on Trump’s Military Actions in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. –

In response to today’s military actions in Venezuela, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:

“Without Congressional approval, President Trump launched strikes on a foreign capital and seized the leader of another country. I’m grateful our service members made it home, but they never should have been sent on this mission in the first place. Michiganders don’t want more wars. I voted to put a stop to Trump’s military buildup in Venezuela, and I will work with my colleagues in Congress in the coming days to demand answers and accountability.

“While the people of Venezuela and the world are safer with Maduro’s violent regime out of power, the Trump Administration is putting the world on a slippery slope to a more dangerous, lawless future. Simultaneously, rather than work with Congress to lower costs for Michigan families, President Trump is planning to force Michiganders to cover the billions of dollars it will take to rebuild and run Venezuela. Taking over another country while Americans can't afford their rent and groceries is unacceptable.”

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Ranking Member Subramanyam Statement on Illegal Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Military and Foreign Affairs Oversight Subcommittee, released the following statement after illegal military action in Venezuela and the capture of Maduro by U.S. forces:

“The Administration's actions in Venezuela prove that this has never been about a war on drugs or protecting Americans. This is about regime change and a personal feud with President Maduro. President Trump said he’d be the ‘Peace President’ and wouldn’t start any new wars, and yet here he is illegally invading another country and kidnapping its President. This was done without Congressional approval, and Congress must be briefed about this as soon as possible.


Rep. Summer Lee Denounces Illegal White House Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON D.C. – JANUARY 3, 2026 — Today, Congresswoman Summer L. Lee (PA-12) issued the following statement on the White House’s unauthorized, illegal military action in Venezuela:

“Invading a foreign country without congressional approval and kidnapping its leader is a blatant violation of U.S. and international law.

“This sets a dangerous precedent that threatens international stability and security, puts Americans further at risk, and infringes on the sovereignty of foreign countries.

“Congress must act and reassert its authority. We must pass a War Powers Resolution and stop this unilateral executive action immediately.”


Statement from Rep. Sykes on the Trump Administration’s Actions in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) issued the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s actions in Venezuela:

“Nicolas Maduro is an authoritarian who has caused real suffering for the Venezuelan people, and they deserve a democratic future, " said Rep. Sykes. “But that does not give President Trump the right to launch military action without Congress, without clear goals, and without explaining to the American people where this is headed.

“Using U.S. military force in a sovereign country with no defined endgame risks pulling us into a long and costly conflict and putting American service members in harm’s way. Comments suggesting the United States will ‘run Venezuela’ only raise more questions about how far this president intends to go and how long he expects Americans to pay the price.


Congressman Tim Moore Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Tim Moore (NC-14) released the following statement:

“Nicolás Maduro was indicted in 2020 for narco-terrorism and weapons trafficking against the United States and now, justice is being carried out. He has been responsible for flooding our streets with deadly drugs and violence that’s claimed countless American lives — that ends today.

“In a precise U.S. military operation with no American lives or equipment lost, this brutal dictator was captured and will finally face accountability on American soil.

“This mission reflects the unmatched skill of our Armed Forces and the strength of President Trump’s leadership on the world stage.”


Rep. Tokuda Statement on Trump Military Actions in Venezuela

Hawaiʻi – Today, U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (HI-02) released the following statement on the president's military actions in Venezuela:

"At a time when Americans can’t afford rent, healthcare, or groceries, the Trump administration found time and money for regime change in Venezuela, risking a war that Americans don’t want. Before we spend another dollar on this reckless conflict, the American people deserve answers, including what this administration’s exit strategy is. Americans wanted help and hope in 2026, not another war.”

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Tonko Statement on Trump’s Illegal War in Venezuela

AMSTERDAM, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) today released the following statement on President Trump’s decision this morning to launch a reckless and illegal attack on Venezuela:

“President Trump’s decision to attack Venezuela and abduct its head of state is reckless and illegal. These actions are clear acts of war against a sovereign nation — a power reserved in our Constitution solely for Congress. In no way did Venezuela pose an imminent threat to the safety of the U.S. These unilateral actions will embolden autocrats around the world and will make the Western Hemisphere a less stable place.

“Under no circumstances should we be putting American service members at risk in a war over regime change and oil. We tried that in Iraq, and it was an utter disaster that cost thousands of American lives and trillions of dollars that should have been spent here in the United States. We should be focused on meeting the pressing and urgent needs of our country, not trying to run another.

“Republicans in Congress need to grow a spine and put a stop to Trump’s illegal and dangerous actions before more American blood and treasure is put at risk in a war precisely no one asked for.”


Trahan Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela

LOWELL, MA – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) issued the following statement regarding the Trump administration’s decision to launch a military attack in Venezuela:

“Maduro is a dictator whose brutal, antidemocratic rule has brought immense suffering to the Venezuelan people. His repression and corruption are well documented and deserve condemnation. Acknowledging that reality does not justify the Trump administration bypassing Congress, putting our brave service men and women in harm’s way, or spending billions of taxpayer dollars on regime change in South America.”

“No amount of conjecture from the Trump administration excuses ignoring the most pressing challenges facing hardworking families here at home. While this administration diverts immense resources into another foreign conflict, Americans continue to struggle with the skyrocketing cost of health care, groceries, and utilities. That is where our focus should be.”

“Congress must be briefed immediately on the legal justification for this attack, the cost to American taxpayers, and the administration’s strategy and path forward in Venezuela and across the region.”

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Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. Statement on Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:

“Last night’s military action taken by President Trump against Venezuela was unconstitutional. Period.

“The Constitution is clear. The power to authorize the use of military force rests with Congress. No president, regardless of party, may bypass that responsibility. Acting without congressional authorization is not strength. It is recklessness, and it places American lives at unnecessary risk.

“I fully understand the serious challenges posed by President Maduro, his regime, and the suffering of the Venezuelan people. Those realities demand thoughtful, lawful, and strategic engagement. They do not justify ignoring the rule of law or launching military action without a clear plan for the aftermath.

“That is why I voted for a War Powers Resolution to end hostilities against Venezuela absent congressional approval. Though it failed on a near party-line vote, the principle remains unchanged. Congress cannot stay silent while its constitutional role is cast aside.

“Our men and women in uniform deserve more than impulsive decisions. They deserve leadership that respects the Constitution, honors established rules of engagement, and places their safety first, both at home and abroad.

“America is strongest when we lead with discipline, law, and moral clarity. Anything less undermines our democracy and endangers those who serve it.”

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Van Orden Statement on the Capture of Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derrick Van Orden, a retired U.S. Navy SEAL who conducted counternarcotics operations in Venezuela and serves on the House Armed Services Committee’s Special Operations Subcommittee, released the following statement on the lawful detention and capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro:

“This operation sends a clear message to America’s adversaries: harming U.S. citizens carries consequences.

Nicolás Maduro operated as a narco-terrorist under the false cover of political authority. His criminal network helped fuel the drug trafficking that has killed thousands of Americans. He is now detained and no longer in a position to threaten American lives.

President Trump’s decisive leadership made this possible. His administration has made it clear that America will no longer tolerate narco-terrorists who profit from the deaths of our citizens.”

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Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Military Action in Venezuela and Capture of President Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 3, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement in response to the administration’s military action in Venezuela:

“Millions of Americans voted in the last presidential election to end frivolous conflicts and unnecessary foreign wars. This escalation of hostilities against Venezuela and the capture of a foreign leader without Congressional authorization goes against the will of the Americans who put the president in power.”

“New Mexicans don’t want America to get involved in another drawn-out, expensive conflict overseas. There has been no transparency and no assurance that taxpayer dollars and military resources used in this hostile action will make Americans safer. What New Mexicans want are real economic solutions that improve their daily lives.”

“Congress did not authorize a new war or regime change in Venezuela. The President must comply with the Constitution, end this act of war, and communicate with the public immediately.”

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Vindman Statement on President Trump Starting a War in Venezuela that the American People Do Not Want

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Wasserman Schultz on Maduro’s Capture

The capture of the brutal, illegitimate ruler of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, who oppressed Venezuela's people is welcome news for my friends and neighbors who fled his violent, lawless, and disastrous rule. However, cutting off the head of a snake is fruitless if it just regrows. Venezuelans deserve the promise of democracy and the rule of law, not a state of endless violence and spiraling disorder.

Weston, Fla. – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), co-chair of the Congressional Venezuela Democracy Caucus, released the following statement on the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro:

“The capture of the brutal, illegitimate ruler of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, who oppressed Venezuela's people is welcome news for my friends and neighbors who fled his violent, lawless, and disastrous rule. However, cutting off the head of a snake is fruitless if it just regrows. Venezuelans deserve the promise of democracy and the rule of law, not a state of endless violence and spiraling disorder. My hope is it offers a passage to true democracy and liberation. This action offers beleaguered Venezuelans a chance to seat their true, democratically elected president, Edmundo González. I’ll demand answers as to why Congress and the American people were bypassed in this effort. The absence of congressional involvement prior to this action risks the continuation of the illegitimate Venezuelan regime.”


Senator Baldwin Releases Statement on Unauthorized Military Attack on Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s unauthorized military attack on Venezuela:

“After months of carrying out illegal strikes in the Caribbean, President Trump’s unauthorized military attack on Venezuela to arrest Maduro and take control of a sovereign nation puts American troops in harm’s way with no transparency, justification, or clear path forward.

"I’m committed to stopping the flow of illegal drugs and standing up to illegitimate dictators like Maduro, but President Trump has made a unilateral decision to initiate regime change, deploy American troops on the ground, and seemingly take control of Venezuela, all without congressional approval.

"The President does not have the unilateral authority to invade foreign countries, oust their governments, and seize their resources. Under the Constitution, the power to go to war lies with the people's branch. It's time for Republicans and Democrats in Congress to reassert our constitutional role in authorizing military force when needed and holding President Trump accountable before the United States is engaged in another war the American people did not choose."

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Bennet Statement on President Trump’s Military Action in Venezuela

Denver — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet issued the following statement:

“As I have long said, Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate, brutal leader who lost, and then stole, the 2024 elections. Nevertheless, as a member of the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee, I have seen no evidence justifying the administration acting alone without Congressional authorization. I certainly have seen no justification for putting U.S. troops on the ground to ‘run the country’ or rebuild and exploit Venezuela’s oil infrastructure for our own economic purposes.

“The President’s top advisors describe today’s actions as a ‘law enforcement exercise.’ But today’s unprecedented use of military force and the President’s suggestion for the United States to run Venezuela are dangerously far beyond that. President Trump’s continued abandonment of basic principles of international law and order eventually will reverberate against America’s national interests; the only question is when.

“The Trump administration’s Venezuelan misadventure sets a precedent for authoritarian regimes around the world to intervene militarily under the guise of going after leaders accused of criminal conduct or simply to access valuable natural resources or critical technologies under their control.

“Last November, I voted for a bipartisan Senate resolution to prevent President Trump from pursuing an unauthorized war with Venezuela, a resolution most Republicans blocked. And, just last month, I voted against the National Defense Authorization Act because, as I said at the time, I ‘could not, in good conscience, rubber-stamp President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s lawless Department of Defense.’

“After pardoning Honduras’s former President Juan Orlando Hernández for drug-related crimes, and having repeatedly invoked oil as a justification for strikes on Venezuela, the administration’s claims that the Department of Defense was merely providing support to serve a federal indictment against Maduro are just one more demonstration of this White House’s incoherence and hypocrisy.

“The Venezuelan people deserve to thrive under a democratically-elected government. But the Trump administration’s trampling of our Constitution and unauthorized military action serve only to weaken U.S. democracy and make the world more dangerous. Congress must reassert its role in these decisions to prevent the President from his continued irresponsible conduct.”


Blumenthal Statement on Venezuela

[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement:

“If we’re starting another endless war, with no clear national security strategy or need, count me out. Maduro is a cruel criminal dictator, but President Trump has never sought approval from Congress for war as the Constitution requires - and our military deserves. We’ve seen several Administrations lead us into conflicts without objectives or timelines and with disastrous consequences. President Trump has also articulated no clear end game to prevent further chaos, violence, and bloodshed in Venezuela. The American people deserve—and Congress should demand—facts and clarity.”

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Booker Statement on Trump’s Occupation of Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement:

Today, many leaders will rightly condemn President Donald Trump’s unlawful and unjust actions in Venezuela, and I join them.

But just as glaring, and far more damning, is Congress’ ongoing abdication of its constitutional duty. For almost a year now, the legislative branch has failed to check a president who repeatedly violates his oath, disregards the law, and endangers American interests at home and abroad.

Time and again, Congress, now led by Republicans, has chosen spineless complicity over its sworn responsibilities. From the reckless leaking of classified information that put American troops at risk, to the illegal use of military force destroying vessels and killing people in the Caribbean and the Pacific without congressional authorization, there has been a stunning absence of accountability.

No hearings.

No serious investigations.

No enforcement of checks and balances.

No accountability.

Again and again, the president has exceeded his authority, defied congressional intent, trampled the separation of powers, and broken the law - while Congress looked away in cowardice and submission.

Republicans in Congress own this corrosive collapse of our constitutional order. With only a handful of honorable exceptions, they have bent themselves to the will of Donald Trump, afraid to state in public the feelings they often communicate privately. That submission, this abandonment of independent judgment and constitutional courage, now stands as one of the greatest dangers to our nation and to the global order America claims to defend.

Nicolás Maduro is a brutal dictator who has committed grave abuses. The United States military remains the most capable fighting force on Earth, and our praiseworthy service members carry out their orders with professionalism and excellence.

But none of that suspends the Constitution.

The Constitution is unambiguous: Congress has the power and responsibility to authorize the use of military force and declare war. Congress has a duty of oversight. Congress must serve as a check, not a rubber stamp, to the President. On this count, Congress has failed.

We face an authoritarian-minded president who acts with dangerous growing impunity. He has shown a willingness to defy court orders, violate the law, ignore congressional intent, and shred basic norms of decency and democracy. This pattern will continue unless the Article I branch of government, especially Republican congressional leadership, finds the courage to act.

They must stop behaving as partisan puppets and start acting as patriotic constitutional stewards.

What happened today is wrong. Congressional Republicans would say so immediately if a Democratic president had done the same. Their silence is surrender. And in that surrender lie the seeds of our democratic unraveling.

There are still three years left in this administration. From the pardoning of individuals who violently attacked police officers while attempting to overturn our election to this latest extrajudicial assault on another nation’s sovereignty, the damage will continue unless it is confronted.

Enough is enough.

Congress has failed. But it is not too late to redeem the harm done by a year of submission and silence. Congress must act now. It must reassert its constitutional authority, restore the rule of law, and stop this president before further injury is done to our democracy and our republic.


Senator Collins’ Statement on the Arrest of Nicolas Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement in response to the U.S. operation that resulted in the successful arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro:

“Nicolas Maduro is a narco-terrorist and international drug trafficker who has been indicted twice in U.S. courts and who should stand trial in this country.

“I was personally briefed by Secretary Rubio this morning. While there is still much we don’t know, this mission appears to have been a limited scope operation, run in conjunction with law enforcement, that effectively apprehended an international criminal.

“Congress should have been informed about the operation earlier and needs to be involved as this situation evolves. Maduro was a ruthless dictator who was not considered to be the legitimate leader of Venezuela by both the Biden and Trump administrations as well as by the European Union. The long-term success of today’s operation will depend on our ability to work with international and private sector partners.”

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Sen. Cruz Statement on U.S. Strikes in Venezuela and Maduro Capture

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued a statement following overnight strikes by the U.S. military against the Venezuelan regime and the capture of Nicolás Maduro to stand trial in the United States on criminal charges:

Sen. Cruz said, “The Venezuelan regime has for decades posed an acute threat to the national security of the United States and the safety and security of Americans, and Nicolás Maduro himself was a corrupt dictator and thug who systematically oppressed the people of Venezuela and threatened America and our allies. Domestically, he was straightforwardly illegitimate. Internationally, he supported American enemies across the globe, Islamist terrorists, and narcoterrorists.

“Maduro facilitated, enabled, and profited from flooding the United States with drugs that injured and killed hundreds of thousands of Americans. Removing him from power will save countless lives and serve as a warning to all others targeting Americans.

“From the opening months of my time serving in the Senate, I have worked to counter Maduro’s threat to the American people, secure legitimate rule in Venezuela, and restore the country as an American ally within the Western Hemisphere.

“I applaud President Trump for his leadership, and I am deeply grateful to our servicemembers for their execution of this operation. Heidi and I are praying in thanks and for the quick and full recovery of our injured.”


Duckworth Reacts to Trump’s Actions in Venezuela

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement regarding Trump’s actions in Venezuela:

“The American people believed Donald Trump when he promised on the campaign trail that he would get our nation out of foreign wars, but this morning we awoke to another stark reminder that he is—and has always been—a liar who has never cared about keeping his promises. The Constitution requires the American people, through their elected representatives in Congress, to authorize any President to engage in acts of war—because they will be the ones to live with the consequences of the decision—and it is unacceptable for this President to deny them that responsibility.

“While Trump—whose love of country is best measured by the number of times he dodged the draft during Vietnam—may believe that war is ‘like watching a TV show’ as he said this morning, he has never understood or appreciated that the true costs of war are measured not only in dollars and cents, but in the blood, sweat and sacrifices of our troops and our military families. Sadly, our troops understand all too well just how costly it can be when our nation engages in war without a plan for what comes next, destabilizing an entire region.

“Donald Trump’s reckless and unconstitutional operations in Venezuela—including this morning’s arrest of a foreign leader—are not about enforcing law and order because if they were, he wouldn’t hide them from Congress. Maduro was unquestionably a bad actor, but no President has the authority to unilaterally decide to use force to topple a government, thrusting us and the region into uncertainty without justification, a defined end-state or a real plan for preventing the instability that could come next. His actions continue putting American troops, personnel and citizens at risk both in the region and around the globe. None of that serves our nation’s interests.”

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Durbin Statement On The Trump Administration’s Actions In Venezuela

SPRINGFIELD – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement after U.S. military forces captured Venezuela President, Nicolás Maduro:

“First and foremost, I disagree with President Trump’s use of U.S. military forces without Congressional approval and worry deeply about this Administration’s follow through on foreign policy interventions. Also, a Justice Department indictment cannot justify the lack of Congressional authorization. At the same time, Nicolás Maduro repeatedly denied the will of the Venezuelan people, including when two thirds of them voted for an end to decades of political and economic ruin and criminality in the summer of 2024. I witnessed with my own eyes their heartbreaking outcries for change when I visited Venezuela in 2018 and shared as much with Maduro at that time.

“I have spoken with opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado in recent months and believe she and President-elect Edmundo González have the best interests of the Venezuelan people in mind. They should be allowed to begin the formidable task of rebuilding their own nation.”

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DECLARACIÓN DE LA SENADORA GILLIBRAND SOBRE LAS OPERACIONES MILITARES ESTADOUNIDENSES EN VENEZUELA

Hoy, la senadora estadounidense Kirsten Gillibrand, miembro del Comité de Servicios Armados del Senado y del Comité Selecto de Inteligencia del Senado, emitió la siguiente declaración tras la operación militar estadounidense de anoche en Venezuela:

“Nicolás Maduro era un dictador tiránico que abusó de su poder y de su pueblo, y se negó a aceptar los resultados de las elecciones. Nadie discute que debe rendir cuentas por sus crímenes.

“Pero la Constitución y el derecho internacional no son opcionales. La administración debe justificar estas acciones ante mis colegas del Comité de Servicios Armados del Senado y explicar al pueblo estadounidense cómo esto constituyó un acto de guerra justificado contra un país extranjero.

“Después de haberme asegurado repetidamente a mí y a mis colegas que no tenía intención de hacerlo, la administración también debe explicar por qué llevó a cabo esta operación militar para lograr un cambio de régimen sin la autorización del Congreso y cómo Estados Unidos va a ‘gobernar’ Venezuela indefinidamente sin poner en peligro a nuestros soldados.

“Más allá de esta flagrante violación de la confianza, me preocupa que las acciones de la administración no sean el final de algo, sino el comienzo del caos y la inestabilidad en la región, lo que amenaza a nuestros militares, a nuestros aliados y a la seguridad estadounidense.

“La administración debe presentar un plan concreto para garantizar la paz y la estabilidad en Venezuela y en el hemisferio occidental, con transparencia y en consulta con el Congreso.”

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Gillibrand Statement On U.S. Military Operations In Venezuela

Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after last night’s U.S. military operation in Venezuela:

“Nicolás Maduro was a thuggish dictator who abused his power, his people, and refused to accept the results of elections. No one disputes that he should be held accountable for his crimes.

“But the Constitution and international law are not optional. The administration must justify these actions to my fellow members on the Senate Armed Services Committee and explain to the American people how this was a justified act of war against a foreign country.

“After repeatedly telling me and my colleagues that it was not seeking to do so, the administration must also explain why they would carry out this military operation to perform regime change without authorization by Congress and how the United States is going to “run” Venezuela indefinitely without putting our service members in harm’s way.

“Beyond this flagrant breach of trust, I remain concerned that the administration’s actions are not the end of something, but the beginning of chaos and instability in the region that threatens our service members, our allies, and American security.

The administration must lay out a concrete plan to ensure peace and stability in Venezuela and the Western Hemisphere, with transparency and in consultation with Congress.”

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Grassley Statement on Maduro’s Arrest

WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued a statement regarding the United States’ arrest of Venezuelan narco-terrorist Nicolás Maduro:

“Maduro was a fugitive of American justice and is responsible for killing hundreds of thousands of innocent Americans. The Department of Justice has had a warrant out for Maduro’s arrest since 2020 for his role in trafficking deadly drugs to the United States. Today, President Trump used his constitutional authority to arrest Maduro and save American lives.

“This action is not without precedent. In 1989, President George H.W. Bush deployed a much larger ground force to capture Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega following his indictment for drug trafficking.”

Grassley previously pressed the Biden-Harris administration on its consistent failure to take any action resulting in Maduro’s arrest or extradition.


Senator Hassan Statement on Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statement on U.S. military action in Venezuela:

“The people of New Hampshire do not want to be dragged into another foreign war, especially by a President who has failed to articulate a clear strategy or purpose for attacking a sovereign nation and, in so doing, destabilizing much of the Western Hemisphere and calling into question our country’s commitment to a rules-based international order.

“Nicolas Maduro was a brutal dictator who trafficked drugs across the world and helped America's adversaries thrive. But I have deep concerns about the President’s unilateral decision to launch a large-scale military operation on foreign soil and with no clear strategy to limit our involvement and prevent us from being dragged into another endless war.

“Our Constitution vests the power to declare war in Congress to ensure that the American people have a voice in deciding whether to put our service members and our country at risk. The President needs to provide information about how he plans to deal with the instability that this action creates and what comes next. In the meantime, I am praying for the service members who were injured in this operation and for the brave men and women who serve in our armed forces around the world.”

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Heinrich Statement Condemning Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement:

“Let’s be clear, President Trump has acted without any legal authorization from Congress. His “capture” of Maduro — no matter how terrible a leader Maduro is - breaks our nation’s laws, tarnishes our global leadership, puts Americans in Venezuela and our Armed Forces at risk, and sets an extremely dangerous precedent.

“Americans want lower costs, transparency, and justice — not endless armed conflicts and regime change wars.

“President Trump’s actions do not have the consent of the American people and should be condemned by Congress.”


Hirono Statement on U.S. Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on U.S. military action in Venezuela:

“Nicolas Maduro should be held accountable for his actions, but Donald Trump's unilateral decision to overthrow his regime does nothing to make our country safer. Instead, without any authorization from Congress or any clear plan for what comes next, Trump is plunging our nation into a conflict that could put American lives at risk while destabilizing the region and our relationships with our allies.

"Trump's characteristically chaotic suggestion that the U.S is "going to run" Venezuela indefinitely, without any details, shows his disregard for the consequences of decades of misguided American intervention around the world. Trump promised to “end forever wars” and not engage in regime change. As usual, he says one thing and does another.

“Today, the American people and the world are left with more questions than answers. What comes next for Venezuela? Will Trump invade another sovereign country? Is there any limit to the lawlessness of the Trump regime? I call on the Republicans in Congress to join us in holding the Trump regime accountable for its refusal to obey the rule of law and demanding the answers the American people deserve."

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Kaine Statement on Trump Administration’s Unauthorized Military Attack on Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s unauthorized military attack on Venezuela:

“President Trump’s unauthorized military attack on Venezuela to arrest Maduro—however terrible he is—is a sickening return to a day when the United States asserted the right to dominate the internal political affairs of all nations in the Western Hemisphere. That history is replete with failures, and doubling down on it makes it difficult to make the claim with a straight face that other countries should respect the United States’ sovereignty when we do not do the same.

“Where will this go next? Will the President deploy our troops to protect Iranian protesters? To enforce the fragile ceasefire in Gaza? To battle terrorists in Nigeria? To seize Greenland or the Panama Canal? To suppress Americans peacefully assembling to protest his policies? Trump has threatened to do all this and more and sees no need to seek legal authorization from people’s elected legislature before putting servicemembers at risk.

“It is long past time for Congress to reassert its critical constitutional role in matters of war, peace, diplomacy and trade. My bipartisan resolution stipulating that we should not be at war with Venezuela absent a clear congressional authorization will come up for a vote next week. We’ve entered the 250th year of American democracy and cannot allow it to devolve into the tyranny that our founders fought to escape.”

Kaine has been a leading voice in Congress raising concerns over presidents’ efforts to expand the use of military force without congressional authorization. Alongside U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA), Kaine filed a War Powers Resolution last month to block the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress. That legislation is ready to be called up for a vote.

Kaine, Paul, and Schiff previously introduced a bipartisan resolution to prevent the use of military force within or against Venezuela, but it did not receive enough Republican votes to pass. Kaine and Schiff also introduced a similar measure focused on repeated strikes in the southern Caribbean Sea that the Trump Administration has carried out without congressional authorization, killing dozens of unknown individuals. The legislation did not gain enough Republican support to pass.

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Kelly Statement on Venezuela Strikes and Arrest of Nicolás Maduro

Today, Arizona Senator and former U.S. Navy combat pilot Mark Kelly released the following statement on the overnight U.S. strikes on Venezuela and arrest of President Nicolás Maduro:

“The President of the United States just overthrew a foreign ruler and explained to the American people that this is about taking control of the oil reserves of a foreign nation. He said that the U.S. will “run the country” until a proper transition can take place and went right into how U.S. oil companies will benefit from this takeover. He doesn’t understand the risks and costs involved with these poorly thought-out decisions that don’t make Americans any safer today than they were yesterday.


King Releases Statement on Unprecedented Attack and Capture of Venezuelan President Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) released the following statement on the unprecedented attack and capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro:

“Let me be very clear: Nicolas Maduro is and was a bad guy. No question. He was a dictator, the leader of a drug cartel, and an illegitimate leader who ignored the results of the most recent Venezuelan election and deserved to be brought to justice. However, doing the right thing can only be truly effective if you do it the right way.

“When we look at today’s military operation, I also want to emphasize that our military is exceptional, and the skill and preparation that it showed was absolutely extraordinary. Having said that, I'm very concerned about where this leads. Does this set a precedent that gives the President the sole authority to commit our nation to what can only be defined as war? Further, when the United States takes an action like this and baldly asserts the right to “run the country,” it invites similar acts of aggression by unfriendly regimes like China, North Korea, or Russia and robs us of the protections of the rules and norms of responsible international behavior.

“The Constitution lays out very clearly that Congress has the power to declare war. I know Congress has abdicated many of its powers in recent years, but I hope and plan on trying to return those fundamental duties back to the legislative branch as the founders designed.

“The next few weeks will prove critical in answering these questions and assessing what could likely be a lasting shift in Latin American and global geopolitics. I intend to remain engaged with these critical questions through the conduct of the needed oversight in my roles on the Armed Services and Intelligence Committees.”

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Moreno Statement on Trump Administration’s Capture of Maduro

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s decisive action to capture illegitimate Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro:

“President Trump today changed the course of Latin America for a generation. By acting in America’s self-defense and self-interest to end the narco-terror organization run by Nicolas Maduro, he eliminated an obvious clear and present danger to our nation. Unlike the inept and incompetent Biden administration, who should have acted when Maduro illegally retained power in 2023, President Trump has shown the world that he will defend and protect American lives.

“Maduro and his band of narco-terrorists were directly responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Americans, threatened our national security, and unleashed an historic invasion of our Country by criminals.

“Venezuela served as an air, land, and maritime corridor for transporting deadly poison to the US with the goal of killing American citizens.

“Maduro protected Colombia’s narco-terrorists. Let them, and anyone in this hemisphere, be on notice that they are next if they aim to harm our nation.

“To the great and now free people of Venezuela: President Trump seeks peace and America does not wish conflict or war with your nation. It is up to you now to determine your own future and chart a path for prosperity that had seemed so elusive. America stands ready to be a partner and friend.

“May God bless America and may God bless President Trump.”


Senator Murray Responds to Trump’s Illegal Military Operation, Address to the Nation

Senator Murray: “It is outrageous for a President who is tanking our economy here at home to suggest that the American taxpayer spend a fortune to ‘run’ another country while doing nothing to make life better in America. I opposed the war in Iraq from the outset—and the parallels here are glaring. I will similarly oppose any war in Venezuela. I refuse to put the lives of servicemembers at further risk, and I refuse to saddle our children with yet another costly war for no good reason.”

Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement in response to President Trump unilaterally launching a regime change war in Venezuela, where he ordered strikes on multiple military targets in the country and seized Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela along with his wife Cilia Flores.

“The American people didn’t ask to start a war with Venezuela. They didn’t ask for an indefinite and costly occupation of another country and they didn’t ask for ‘boots on the ground,’ their sons and daughters put in harm’s way. All they asked for were lower prices at the grocery store. Only Congress can authorize war and I absolutely will not support a large-scale military conflict in Venezuela or a dangerous and expensive occupation. What the President has done is unconstitutional, reckless, and will have far-reaching effects well beyond last night’s strikes.

“The President has provided no legitimate justification for these unauthorized strikes nor any kind of long-term strategy for how he will deal with the fallout of this slapdash regime change—and he must now explain his unhinged statements that we will ‘run’ Venezuela. The American people can see for themselves how dishonest and cynical this entire venture is—we’re supposed to believe drug trafficking warrants the use of military force to topple a foreign government in one instance and then merits a full pardon for the former President of Honduras who was lawfully convicted of the same crime? And we should all be eyes wide open about the potential for self-enrichment and corruption by the Trump administration when it comes to profiting off Venezuela’s oil. This is not about law and order, because if it were, Trump wouldn’t have withheld these plans from Congress, and it is not about actually helping Americans suffering from drug addiction.

“Maduro is a corrupt and oppressive dictator—that much has always been clear. But what stops China or Russia from making similar claims about foreign leaders they don’t like and then using military force to overthrow them? This kind of careless use of military force threatens serious global instability—and none of that is good for Americans here at home.

“There needs to be serious oversight and accountability here. Trump administration officials must come before Congress and publicly explain their rationale and—importantly—just what exactly they think happens next here. Republican leaders should not just shrug their shoulders and let the President bomb whoever he wants on hardly more than a whim—they must join Democrats in pressing for serious accountability and insisting that the use of military force be authorized by Congress.

“If this escalates into a prolonged conflict of any sort, you can bet it won’t be Trump’s family putting their lives on the line—the American people do not want to be dragged into another costly foreign war with no real justification. It is outrageous for a President who is tanking our economy here at home to suggest that the American taxpayer spend a fortune to ‘run’ another country while doing nothing to make life better in America. I opposed the war in Iraq from the outset—and the parallels here are glaring. I will similarly oppose any war in Venezuela. I refuse to put the lives of servicemembers at further risk, and I refuse to saddle our children with yet another costly war for no good reason.”

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Vice Chair Murray, Leader Schumer, National Security Committees Ranking Members Condemn Trump Administration Plan To Run Venezuela

“We strongly condemn President Trump’s announced plans to occupy Venezuela. We have many urgent needs here at home and President Trump’s statement that “we are not afraid of boots on the ground,” begs for clarity on the risks he plans to take with the lives of American service members. Having lied to Congress and misled the American people about his goals while spending months preparing to capture Maduro, the administration has to come clean with Congress and our nation about its real plans in Venezuela. The American people deserve answers about what vital interests are at stake and how this advances their security, neither of which this administration has provided.”


Reed Statement on U.S. Military Raid in Caracas and Trump’s Claim to ‘Run’ Venezuela

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, after President Trump ordered a military raid to capture Nicolás Maduro and his wife in Caracas and claimed that the United States will “run” Venezuela, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“Last night, President Trump waged war on a foreign nation without authorization, without notification, and without any explanation to the American people. Whatever comes next, President Trump will own the consequences.

“Initially, the White House claimed the purpose of the raid was to capture Nicolás Maduro and his wife in Caracas. Now, the President has claimed the United States will “run” Venezuela, and that the objective of this operation is to seize control of Venezuela's oil reserves. This is ludicrous. No serious plan has been presented for how such an extraordinary undertaking would work or what it will cost the American people. History offers no shortage of warnings about the costs – human, strategic, and moral – of assuming we can govern another nation by force.

“This is not a legitimate basis for toppling a government. It violates international law and has failed catastrophically in the past.

“Nicolás Maduro is a brutal autocrat who has destroyed Venezuela's economy, crushed democratic opposition, and presided over pervasive corruption. Nothing in his record warrants defense. But the future of Venezuela is now in great peril, and the American people may very well be asked by President Trump to sacrifice greatly to prop up this foreign nation.

“This has been a profound constitutional failure. Congress – not the President – has the sole power to authorize war. Pursuing regime change without the consent of the American people is a reckless overreach and an abuse of power.

“By normalizing violent, unilateral regime change, Trump weakens the international order we rely on to condemn Putin's invasion of Ukraine and deter Chinese aggression against Taiwan. The question now is not whether Maduro deserved removal – it is what precedent the United States has just set, and what comes next.

“The world did not doubt the capabilities of the United States military before this operation, and they do not doubt them now. But they certainly doubt the judgment of America’s political leaders.

“Republicans in Congress have steadfastly declined to hold Trump Administration accountable for the Venezuela campaign. They must immediately step up and join Democrats in exercising their constitutional duty to provide oversight and demand answers on behalf of the American people.”


Ricketts on Arrest of Nicolas Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) released the following statement after the announcement that U.S. Armed Forces had arrested illegitimate Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro:

“Nicolas Maduro was an illegitimate dictator. He is a narcoterrorist responsible for the death of countless Americans. Congratulations to President Trump for taking swift action to capture him. God bless the heroic troops who executed this successful mission. I look forward to hearing more details on the mission.”


Schatz Statement On President Trump’s Illegal, Unconstitutional Operation In Venezuela

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s illegal and unconstitutional operation in Venezuela:

“President Trump is jeopardizing American lives and interests — and stating plainly that the purpose is for U.S. oil companies to make money in Venezuela. Either these companies knew about these plans in advance, or he’s ordering corporations to be a part of his effort to overthrow another government.

“This operation is illegal under international law and unconstitutional without prior congressional approval.

“The United States should not be running other countries for any reason. We should have learned by now not to get involved in endless wars and regime change missions that carry catastrophic consequences for Americans.”

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Slotkin Statement on President Trump’s Venezuela Strikes and Ousting of Maduro

WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s strikes in Venezuela and ousting of Nicolas Maduro:

“President Trump’s decision to bomb targets in Venezuela, depose Nicolas Maduro, and “run” Venezuela continues the signature trend of his presidency: relentless focus on foreign entanglements and looking tough abroad, so as to distract from what’s happening to Americans’ pocketbooks.

“So instead of action on health care costs or housing or energy bills, Americans get military action in Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, the Caribbean, the Pacific, and now a long-term engagement in Venezuela.

“Despite all the talking points to the media — and by Cabinet members directly to senators last month — this was never about stopping the drug cartels. If it were, President Trump wouldn’t have pardoned drug kingpin Juan Orlando Hernández, and he’d be going after Mexican cartels that move the fentanyl that’s killed hundreds of thousands of Americans — not fishing boats full of cocaine or, ultimately, the Venezuelan oil fields.

“The President laid out his plan of regime change. He says he now wants to “run” Venezuela and particularly Venezuela’s vast oil reserves.

“Maduro is a bad man, and the people of Venezuela deserve better. But we know that regime change isn’t as simple as removing one leader. While there are comparisons to the arrest of Manuel Noriega in Panama in 1989, let’s not forget that the U.S. sent in over 27,000 troops and lost 23 servicemembers in the process.

“The bottom line is that President Trump wants to look tough by attacking countries abroad to distract from his failure to attack the core issue of the cost of living at home.”

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Thune Statement on Arrest of Nicolas Maduro

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) today released the following statement after President Trump announced that federal drug fugitive Nicolas Maduro was captured for the purposes of being held accountable for his crimes.

“For years, Nicolas Maduro, the cartel he leads, and other cartels in Latin America have trafficked drugs into the United States, which have killed hundreds of thousands of Americans. President Trump’s decisive action to disrupt the unacceptable status quo and apprehend Maduro, through the execution of a valid Department of Justice warrant, is an important first step to bring him to justice for the drug crimes for which he has been indicted in the United States. I am grateful for the brave men and women of our armed forces who carried out this necessary action. I spoke to Secretary Rubio early this morning, and I look forward to receiving further briefings from the administration on this operation as part of its comprehensive counternarcotics strategy when the Senate returns to Washington next week.”


Van Hollen Statement on Trump Strikes in Venezuela

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding Trump strikes in Venezuela:

“The American people did not ask for this act of war to bring about regime change in Venezuela – nor did Congress authorize it. President Trump has put our troops in harm’s way, and he has not provided a clear, fact-based rationale for these actions, nor the long-term strategy following these strikes. This Administration owes the American people and the Congress immediate answers. This act of war is a grave abuse of power by the President. The Trump Administration is repeating the worst mistakes of our past and endangering American lives – and their motive for doing so is a farce. Trump seized Maduro and his wife just weeks after he pardoned former Honduran President – and notorious convicted drug kingpin – Juan Orlando Hernández. Maduro is a dictator, but his regime did not pose the immediate threat necessary to warrant U.S. military action on foreign soil without Congressional approval. This is not about demolishing a dictatorship, as we’ve seen Trump cozy up to dictators around the world. This is about trying to grab Venezuela's oil for Trump's billionaire buddies. Congress must not abdicate its constitutional authority and allow control of the world’s most powerful military to fall into just one set of hands.”


Senate Intelligence Vice Chairman Warner Responds to Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement:

“Our Constitution places the gravest decisions about the use of military force in the hands of Congress for a reason. Using military force to enact regime change demands the closest scrutiny, precisely because the consequences do not end with the initial strike.

“If the United States asserts the right to use military force to invade and capture foreign leaders it accuses of criminal conduct, what prevents China from claiming the same authority over Taiwan’s leadership? What stops Vladimir Putin from asserting similar justification to abduct Ukraine’s president? Once this line is crossed, the rules that restrain global chaos begin to collapse, and authoritarian regimes will be the first to exploit it.

“None of this absolves Maduro. He is a corrupt authoritarian who has repressed his people, stolen elections, imprisoned political opponents, and presided over a humanitarian catastrophe that has forced millions of Venezuelans to flee. The Venezuelan people deserve democratic leadership, and the United States and the international community should have done far more, years ago, to press for a peaceful transition after Maduro lost a vote of his own citizens. But recognizing Maduro’s crimes does not give any president the authority to ignore the Constitution.

“The hypocrisy underlying this decision is especially glaring. This same president recently pardoned former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was convicted in a U.S. court on serious drug trafficking charges, including conspiring with narcotics traffickers while in office. Yet now, the administration claims that similar allegations justify the use of military force against another sovereign nation. You cannot credibly argue that drug trafficking charges demand invasion in one case, while issuing a pardon in another.

“America’s strength comes from our commitment to the rule of law, democratic norms, and constitutional restraint. When we abandon those principles, even in the name of confronting bad actors, we weaken our credibility, endanger global stability, and invite abuses of power that will long outlast any single presidency.”

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Warner, National Security Committees Ranking Members Condemn Trump Administration Plan To Run Venezuela

WASHINGTON – Today, Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense Chris Coons (D-DE), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member of the Senate Housing, Banking and Urban Affairs Committee Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations Brian Schatz (D-HI) released the following statement after President Trump’s announcement that he plans for the U.S. to “run” Venezuela:

“We strongly condemn President Trump’s announced plans to occupy Venezuela. We have many urgent needs here at home and President Trump’s statement that “we are not afraid of boots on the ground,” begs for clarity on the risks he plans to take with the lives of American service members. Having lied to Congress and misled the American people about his goals while spending months preparing to capture Maduro, the administration has to come clean with Congress and our nation about its real plans in Venezuela. The American people deserve answers about what vital interests are at stake and how this advances their security, neither of which this administration has provided.”

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Warnock Statement on U.S. Strike in Venezuela

Senator Reverend Warnock: “It’s time for an increasingly feckless Congress to finally act and put this reckless President in check.”

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released the following statement after President Trump announced U.S. forces had carried out “a large scale strike against Venezuela” to capture the Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro. The President announced this morning that, “we are going to run the country now” until a “proper transition” can take place.

“Americans do not want U.S. troops involved in yet another endless war or their government running another government. Yet, that is what Donald Trump who, as a candidate promised to get us out of foreign wars, has announced. “We will run” Venezuela. We have seen that awful movie before.

“To be sure, Nicolás Maduro is a dictator involved in the death dealing international drug business. But there are many such bad actors around the world. In fact, one who trafficked hundreds of tons of illegal drugs into the United States was recently pardoned by Donald Trump without any good explanation.

“The recent attack on a sovereign nation in our own hemisphere is also without a good explanation. In fact, this huge escalation with no clear strategy risks bringing more violence and instability to a nation of 28 million people, potentially causing more drug trafficking and more migration to the United States. This is another broken promise by an unfocused President who is more concerned with foreign oil and regime change than solving Americans’ most pressing economic challenges. Americans want to know who is actually fighting for them?


Warren Statement on Trump’s Military Action in Venezuela

Warren Statement on Trump’s Military Action in Venezuela

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released the following statement following President Trump's military action in Venezuela:

"President Trump’s unilateral military action to attack another country and seize Maduro — no matter how terrible a dictator he is — is unconstitutional and threatens to drag the U.S. into further conflicts in the region. What does it mean that the U.S. will ‘run’ Venezuela, and what will Trump do next around the world? The American people voted for lower costs, not for Trump’s dangerous military adventurism overseas that won’t make the American people safer.”

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Welch Statement on Trump’s Military Action in Venezuela

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following statement on President Trump’s use of military force to remove Nicolás Maduro from Venezuela:

“Today, my thoughts are first and foremost on the safety and wellbeing of America’s armed forces, especially the brave Vermonters serving in the Vermont Air National Guard deployed as part of Operation Southern Spear.

“This attack on Venezuela was illegal, unconstitutional, and reckless. President Trump’s hunger for a regime change war makes it clear he doesn’t care about how this unauthorized and illegal action could cause further chaos and suffering in Venezuela. Has he learned nothing from Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya? This could lead us into another forever war, risking the lives of U.S. service members and hurting the economy. There is no question that Nicolás Maduro, whom we all despise, was a corrupt autocrat who caused immense suffering in his country and instability in the region—but today’s actions by the President were wrong and will ultimately weaken our national security.

“And then there is the Trumpian hypocrisy: President Trump claims justification to bring Maduro to federal court in New York City to face drug charges. It will be the same court where the former president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernández, was convicted last year of trafficking more than 400 tons of cocaine to the United States and sentenced to 45 years in federal prison — only to be pardoned and freed by President Trump.

“Under our Constitution it is the exclusive responsibility of the United States Congress to authorize an act of war against a foreign country. Congress must immediately return to Washington to debate and vote. It is our obligation, and one of the most solemn, serious decisions we will make as representatives of the American people.”

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Chairman Wicker Commends President Trump, U.S. Military and Law Enforcement for Successful Mission to Arrest Maduro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today commended President Trump, the American military, and the U.S. law enforcement community for a successful mission to arrest illegitimate Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and bring him to America to face the U.S. justice system. Chairman Wicker issued the following statement:

“I commend President Trump for ordering a successful mission to arrest illegitimate Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro and bring him to the United States to face justice. Our military performed an incredibly complex mission with characteristic precision and professionalism. Today, we owe a debt of gratitude to the brave individuals who were able to accomplish such a daring operation."

“This arrest was the culmination of a monthslong effort by the Trump administration to degrade the narco-terrorist organizations that Maduro oversaw. The Venezuelan people must now act swiftly to put their country back on a path to peace and prosperity, which will redound to the benefit of all their neighbors. I will convene a briefing as soon as possible to hear testimony from senior military and law enforcement leaders about this operation."

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Wyden Statement on Trump’s Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today issued the following statement in response to Donald Trump’s illegal military action in Venezuela:

“President Trump’s attack on Venezuela, without congressional authorization or imminent threat to the United States, is exactly the same global interventionism that Americans soundly rejected after decades of failed wars and disastrous meddling in other nations’ affairs. No matter what you think of Maduro, Trump’s threat to ‘run’ the country and put ‘boots on the ground’ invites another quagmire that would come at a massive cost of lives and money, and that emboldens every authoritarian who seeks to attack a neighbor.”

“I strongly oppose these actions. If congressional Republicans fail to check the president’s illegal military actions, Trump will see that as a green light to attack foreign nations, no matter how harmful that is to American interests.”

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Rep. Burlison Issues Statement on Arrest of Nicolás Maduro and the Failure of Socialism

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Eric Burlison issued the following statement on the arrest of Nicolás Maduro and the failure of socialism in Venezuela:

"The arrest of Nicolás Maduro is the latest reminder that socialism inevitably fails. When the state takes control of production and distribution, freedom erodes and power concentrates.

Venezuela’s socialist descent collapsed the country and pushed mass migration, criminal activity, narcotics trafficking, and energy instability into the United States. Maduro’s removal was necessary to protect America’s interests and our people, and it gives Venezuela an opportunity to choose a different path.

Socialism remains attractive because it promises comfort without responsibility. Prosperity is not delivered by government. It is created by free people in open markets.

Compassion carries meaning only when it is voluntary. While America cannot and should not impose its system on other nations, we cannot tolerate the consequences of failed ideologies crossing into our own country.

America’s strength rests on individual liberty and personal responsibility. Those principles are worth defending."


Comisionado Residente comparte actualización sobre viajes aéreos de Puerto Rico

CAGUAS, Puerto Rico — El Comisionado Residente de Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, compartió la información más reciente sobre los viajes aéreos en medio de la situación en curso que continúa afectando a Puerto Rico y la región.

“Tras hablar directamente con el administrador de la Administración Federal de Aviación (FAA), Bryan Bedford, reiteré que la seguridad del público viajero es la máxima prioridad y que es fundamental restablecer los viajes de manera oportuna y ordenada. Para atender la demanda creada por las interrupciones recientes, nos comunicamos con las aerolíneas para pedirles que aumenten la capacidad y ofrezcan opciones adicionales a los viajeros. Varias aerolíneas han indicado planes para añadir vuelos adicionales y utilizar aeronaves de mayor capacidad a fin de trasladar a los pasajeros de manera más eficiente,” dijo el Comisionado Residente.

Se recomienda a los pasajeros afectados contactar directamente a sus aerolíneas para asistencia con la reprogramación y para obtener información actualizada sobre retrasos, cancelaciones o cambios en los itinerarios.

Resident Commissioner Issues Update on Air Travel in Puerto Rico

CAGUAS, Puerto Rico — The Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, shared the latest information regarding air travel amid the ongoing situation affecting Puerto Rico and the region.

“After speaking directly with the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Bryan Bedford, I reiterated that the safety of the traveling public is the top priority and that restoring travel in a timely and orderly manner is essential. To address the demand created by recent disruptions, we reached out to airlines to increase capacity and provide additional options for travelers. Several airlines have indicated plans to add extra flights and deploy larger aircraft to move passengers more efficiently,” said the Resident Commissioner.

Affected travelers are encouraged to contact their airlines directly for assistance with rebooking and the most up-to-date information on delays or schedule changes.

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