Congress, Not POTUS, Responsible for Declaring War

In a recent tweet, @POTUS stated that the war between Ukraine and Russia is not ours to fight, even if Americans wanted to make it so. The task of declaring war would still belong to Congress and not the President of the United States. The fact that Russian President Vladimir Putin is an evil megalomaniacal despot has been widely acknowledged by both American and international leaders. However, this does not mean that the United States should intervene in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It is important to remember that any decision to declare war on another country must be made by Congress according to Article I Section 8 of the Constitution. The Founding Fathers established this system of checks and balances in order to ensure that no one person or branch of government had too much power over matters of war and peace. This means that while @POTUS may have his own opinion on whether or not we should get involved in a conflict abroad, he cannot make any decisions without first consulting with Congress. It is also important to note that public opinion plays a major role in determining whether or not we go to war with another country. Recent polls show that most Americans are opposed to getting involved in a military conflict with Russia over Ukraine’s sovereignty. This sentiment is shared by many members of Congress who believe it would be unwise for us to enter into yet another costly foreign entanglement at this time when our own economy is struggling due to COVID-19 related shutdowns. In conclusion, while Putin’s actions are reprehensible and must be condemned by world leaders, it is ultimately up to Congress – not @POTUS – as outlined in Article I Section 8 – as well as public opinion – whether or not we decide to enter into a military conflict with Russia over Ukraine’s sovereignty at this time.