The president has the power to strike. After so many days, he must cease military action unless congress declares war.
Constitutionally speaking, how things actually happen are another matter all together.
I know about the War Powers act and all of the twisting and turning that has been done since in order to give the president the power of an emperor. I do not agree with it as it is usually employed. Like Libya, for instance.
Constitutionally speaking, how things actually happen are another matter all together.
Any act that isn’t authorized by the Constitution is illegal and the actor is a criminal.