This resolution, like a related measure introduced earlier in 2026, would direct the President to withdraw U.S. Armed Forces — including Coast Guard vessels enforcing a blockade or quarantine — from hostilities in or against Cuba, on the grounds that Congress never declared war or authorized military action there. It cites the Supreme Court's Prize Cases ruling that a blockade is itself evidence a state of war exists, and argues the President lacks constitutional authority to initiate war without Congress. The withdrawal requirement would not apply if Congress later passes a declaration of war or specific authorization. As with the earlier version, it would not restrict the U.S. military's ability to respond to an actual or imminent attack or to continue lawful counternarcotics operations.
Congressional Summary
This joint resolution directs the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within or against Cuba unless a declaration of war or authorization to use military force for such purpose has been enacted.The resolution specifies that it shall not be construed to prevent the United States from defending itself from an armed attack, the threat of an imminent armed attack, or the lawful execution of counternarcotics operations.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- Senate
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in Senate
- Action Date
- 2026-05-20
- Date Added
- 2026-07-18
- Source
- Congress.gov →
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