The U.S. Senate on Tuesday rejected a Democratic-led effort to require President Donald Trump to end or seek congressional approval for an energy blockade targeting Cuba, voting 51–47 to block the measure.

The legislation, introduced by Tim Kaine and other Democrats, was brought under the War Powers Act and aimed to limit the president’s ability to take military or quasi-military action against the island nation without approval from Congress.

Republicans moved to dismiss the resolution, arguing it was out of order because the United States is not formally engaged in hostilities with Cuba. The procedural vote succeeded largely along party lines, with Sen. John Fetterman the only Democrat joining Republicans, while Sens. Susan Collins and Rand Paul broke with their party to support the measure.

Democrats argued that U.S. actions, including efforts to disrupt fuel shipments to Cuba using Coast Guard and naval assets, amount to “hostilities” under federal law and warrant congressional oversight. Kaine said the policy has contributed to worsening humanitarian conditions on the island, including shortages of food, water, and medical resources.

Republicans countered that the resolution was unnecessary and politically motivated, maintaining that no formal military engagement is underway. Sen. Rick Scott argued the measure did not reflect current conditions and that existing actions fall within the president’s authority as commander in chief.

The vote marks the latest in a series of failed Democratic attempts to use war powers legislation to restrict Trump’s ability to act unilaterally in foreign conflicts, including prior efforts related to Iran and Venezuela.

The Trump administration has said its Cuba policy is aimed at pressuring the country’s leadership to release political prisoners, reduce repression, and implement economic reforms.

The outcome underscores ongoing divisions in Washington over executive authority in foreign policy, particularly as the administration signals continued focus on Cuba following recent military and economic actions in other regions.