S.jres5 - Directing the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Ukraine that have not been authorized by Congress. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution 5 directs the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Ukraine that have not been authorized by Congress. Introduced by Mr. Paul on January 23, 2025, it invokes the War Powers Resolution and the Department of State Authorization Act to mandate the President to withdraw forces within 30 days of the resolution's adoption, absent a declaration of war or specific congressional authorization.
The resolution cites concerns over the use of U.S.-provided ATACMS missiles by Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia, the deployment of U.S. military personnel and contractors in Ukraine, and the potential escalation of the conflict. It emphasizes Congress's sole power to declare war under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution.
The resolution aims to reassert congressional authority over military actions and prevent further escalation of U.S. involvement in the Russo-Ukraine war without explicit congressional approval.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would compel the President to remove U.S. Armed Forces from activities in Ukraine not explicitly authorized by Congress. This would likely reduce direct U.S. military involvement in the conflict.
It could also lead to a reassessment of U.S. support strategies for Ukraine, potentially shifting towards non-military aid or diplomatic efforts. The resolution's passage could signal a change in U.S. foreign policy regarding intervention in international conflicts.
Potential Benefits
- Reassertion of Congressional authority over military engagements, aligning with the Constitution's allocation of war powers.
- Reduced risk of direct military conflict between the United States and Russia, mitigating potential escalation.
- Potential for de-escalation of the Russo-Ukraine war through reduced U.S. military involvement.
- Increased focus on diplomatic solutions and non-military aid to Ukraine.
- Greater transparency and accountability in U.S. foreign policy decision-making.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential weakening of Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian aggression due to reduced U.S. support.
- Possible perception of reduced U.S. commitment to allies and international security.
- Increased risk of Russian gains in Ukraine, potentially destabilizing the region.
- Undermining of U.S. credibility as a reliable partner in international affairs.
- Potential for emboldening other adversaries who may perceive a lack of U.S. resolve.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
This resolution aligns with Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to declare war. It also invokes the War Powers Resolution, which aims to limit the President's ability to commit U.S. forces to armed conflict without congressional consent.
The resolution seeks to ensure that any U.S. military involvement in Ukraine is explicitly authorized by Congress, upholding the principle of separation of powers. By directing the removal of troops from unauthorized hostilities, it reinforces Congress's role in overseeing and controlling military actions.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).