Maine Representative Chellie Pingree (D-1st District) has formally condemned a recent U.S. “large-scale strike” in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. While Pingree acknowledged that Maduro is a “ruthless dictator” responsible for economic collapse and human rights abuses, she argued the operation was carried out without the constitutionally required authorization from Congress.
The Trump Administration confirmed the couple was flown out of the country to face charges in New York, a move Pingree described as a “breathtaking abuse of power” and a violation of the War Powers Resolution. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that the pair would soon face “the full wrath of American justice.”
Rep. Pingree’s Full Statement:
The Trump Administration’s decision to apprehend and detain President Maduro is a breathtaking abuse of power, a flagrant violation of the Constitution and international law, and a dangerous escalation that undermines long-standing diplomatic norms. Just a few weeks ago, Secretaries Rubio and Hegseth told every U.S. Senator that their actions in the region—which were already legally dubious—had nothing to do with regime change. That was clearly a lie.
Make no mistake: Nicolás Maduro is a ruthless dictator who has repeatedly engaged in antidemocratic practices—including rigging the 2024 election, as has been reported by many international observers. His policies have led to economic collapse, widespread human rights abuses, and the displacement of millions of Venezuelans, creating a humanitarian crisis that has had a devastating impact across the international stage. Maduro’s dangerous leadership and destructive actions deserve unequivocal international condemnation.
But the President does not have the authority to carry out military or paramilitary actions, seize foreign leaders, or pursue regime change without the explicit authorization of Congress. No such authorization was sought or granted. Bypassing Congress in this way is a direct violation of the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution, and it sets a deeply alarming precedent for unchecked executive power in matters of war and peace.
This reckless move risks destabilizing an already fragile region, puts millions of civilians at risk, and further isolates us from our friends and allies. I will demand answers and accountability from this Administration, and work with my colleagues to ensure that no further unauthorized actions are taken without congressional approval.
