Democratic lawmakers said they were misled by Donald Trump’s administration ahead of a sudden U.S. operation that removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power.
Lawmakers said officials had assured them during briefings that there were no plans for regime change or military action—claims now being called into question following the operation.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said, “Clearly they’re not being straight with the American people,” and called for full briefings for all members of Congress.
Sen. Jack Reed warned there was no clear plan for U.S. control of Venezuela, citing potential human, strategic, and financial risks.
Several Democrats, including Rep. Seth Moulton, said they felt deceived. “We were briefed, but we’ve been completely lied to,” Moulton said.
Some Republicans, however, defended the operation. Senate Majority Leader John Thune described it as a step toward justice for Maduro’s alleged drug crimes, while Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart said the move sends a warning to authoritarian governments in Cuba and Nicaragua.