Bill Summary
The resolution commends the United States military for its successful operation in Venezuela on January 3, 2026, known as Operation Absolute Resolve. This operation resulted in the capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who faced multiple charges including narco-terrorism. The resolution highlights the meticulous planning and execution of the mission, which was carried out without American casualties and without the need for prolonged military occupation. It asserts that the operation not only removed Maduro from power but also offers hope for a path to democracy and prosperity for the Venezuelan people, led by the opposition under President Edmundo Gonzalez and Maria Corina Machado. The resolution praises President Trump and his administration for their leadership and strategic vision in addressing regional instability in Latin America, suggesting that this military action could foster democratic transitions and enhanced stability in the region.
Possible Impacts
The resolution commending the United States military action in Venezuela could affect people in various ways, including:
1. **Political Climate in Venezuela**: The successful operation and capture of Nicolas Maduro may empower the Venezuelan opposition, potentially leading to a shift in governance and the establishment of a more democratic regime. This could improve the political landscape for Venezuelans who have been living under authoritarian rule, allowing for greater civil liberties, political participation, and economic opportunities.
2. **Regional Stability and Relations**: The resolution emphasizes promoting regional stability in Latin America. If the operation leads to a more stable Venezuela, it may positively influence neighboring countries by reducing the spread of narco-terrorism and fostering collaborative efforts against organized crime. This could enhance diplomatic relations and security cooperation among countries in the region.
3. **Perceptions of U.S. Military Intervention**: The commending of U.S. military action may shape public opinion both domestically and internationally regarding American military interventions. In the U.S., it could bolster support for future military actions, while in other countries, it may lead to increased skepticism or resistance to U.S. involvement in sovereign nations, potentially affecting foreign relations and international policy discussions.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[S. Res. 576 Introduced in Senate (IS)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
2d Session
S. RES. 576
Commending the United States military action in Venezuela.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES
January 8 (legislative day, January 7), 2026
Mr. Scott of Florida (for himself, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Budd, Mr.
Tuberville, Mr. Curtis, Mr. Schmitt, Mrs. Britt, Mr. Rounds, Ms.
Lummis, Mr. Cramer, Mrs. Blackburn, Mr. Mullin, and Mr. Cruz) submitted
the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on
Foreign Relations
_______________________________________________________________________
RESOLUTION
Commending the United States military action in Venezuela.
Whereas, on January 3, 2026, the United States military executed a flawless,
large-scale operation across Caracas, Venezuela, resulting in the
successful capture of narco-terrorist Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia
Flores;
Whereas that operation, codenamed Operation Absolute Resolve, was the
culmination of months of planning, intelligence gathering, and joint
military cooperation, demonstrating exceptional strategic execution and
timing;
Whereas the raid effectively removed indicted cartel leader Nicolas Maduro from
power without prolonged occupation, allowing United States forces to
withdraw after achieving the objective with no American lives lost;
Whereas Maduro and Flores were transported to the United States to face
longstanding Federal charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy,
cocaine importation conspiracy, and possession of machine guns and
destructive devices;
Whereas the people of Venezuela, because of the bold and strong action of the
United States administration, now have a path to liberty and prosperity
first laid out by the brave Venezuelan opposition led by Edmundo
Gonzalez, the duly elected President of Venezuela, and Maria Corina
Machado; and
Whereas President Trump, his administration, and the United States military are
to be commended for their bold leadership, strategic vision, and
unwavering commitment to justice and protecting the American people by
executing the operation: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Senate--
(1) commends Operation Absolute Resolve for its precision,
efficiency, and role in addressing longstanding regional
instability in Latin America; and
(2) emphasizes that this bold action will pave the way for
democratic transitions in Venezuela and promote regional
stability in the Western Hemisphere.
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