Do nuclear submarine deployments require Congressional approval under the War Powers Act?

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False. The War Powers Resolution does not require congressional approval before nuclear submarine deployments for deterrence. Under 50 U.S.C. § 1541(c), the notification and 60-day clock requirements only trigger when U.S. forces enter "hostilities or... imminent hostilities." Repositioning submarines as a deterrent or show of force — with no active engagement — does not meet that threshold. The Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel has consistently held that the President can deploy forces abroad for deterrence without prior congressional approval. The question of whether publicly announcing the movement via social media should have triggered any notification is separate from the legal requirement.

Do nuclear submarine deployments require Congressional approval under the War Powers Act?

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