Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the President’s constitutional powers as Commander-in-Chief to introduce U.S. Armed Forces into hostilities (or situations where imminent involvement is clearly indicated) may be exercised only pursuant to: (1) a declaration of war by Congress, (2) specific statutory authorization from Congress, or (3) a national emergency created by an attack upon the United States, its territories, possessions, or armed forces. The President must consult Congress “in every possible instance” beforehand and submit a written report within 48 hours detailing the circumstances, scope, and authority. Unauthorized use of force must end after 60 days (extendable by 30 more for military necessity), unless Congress declares war, authorizes it, or extends the period. No prior congressional approval is strictly required in the case of a direct attack creating a national emergency, but the law otherwise limits initiation to the above conditions. In practice, presidents have often initiated limited actions citing commander-in-chief authority, leading to ongoing constitutional debate.