The US Congress is deeply divided after a classified session on Trump’s plan in Venezuela. Leaders from both parties offered opposing views after more than two hours of briefing with high-ranking Republican officials.
Democrats expressed frustration over limited information. The minority leader in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, demanded clarity on the duration of the intervention, the number of troops, costs, and clear limits. He questioned the dependence on Chavista officials, whom he described as unpredictable and opposed to US interests.
Elizabeth Warren questions opacity
Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized executives of oil companies for appearing more informed than the public about the plan to “manage” Venezuela. This division in the US Congress reflects historical tensions: since 2019, the US has imposed sanctions on the regime of Nicolás Maduro for human rights violations and fraudulent elections, according to UN reports.
Republicans defend firmness of Trump’s plan
Lindsey Graham supports total control
On the Republican side, Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, stated that the US is “in charge” and warned that any Venezuelan sabotage would have consequences. He mentioned possible troop deployment, although unlikely, and highlighted oil sales revenue to stabilize the country. The meeting included Marco Rubio as Secretary of State and Pete Hegseth in Defense.
Some lawmakers in the US Congress indicated a better understanding of the term “manage” Venezuela, but doubts persist about short- and long-term objectives. The context aggravates the Venezuelan crisis: hyperinflation exceeded 1 million percent in 2018 (IMF), with 7 million migrants by 2025 (UNHCR).
- Democrats demand transparency on troops and funds.
- Republicans emphasize control and oil benefits.
- Session reveals partisan fractures in foreign policy.
Experts like the Council on Foreign Relations note that the plan aims to counter Chinese and Russian influence in Venezuela, with 300 million barrels of oil reserves (OPEC). The US Congress now faces key debates on funding and risks. This division in the US Congress could influence future budget approvals for the operation in Venezuela.
