Which instrument requires Senate ratification to become binding between countries?

Which instrument requires Senate ratification to become binding between countries?

• A. Executive Agreement
• B. Pocket veto
• C. Impoundment
• D. Treaty

Answer: (D)

In U.S. practice, formal international agreements that bind countries under international law are treaties. They must be negotiated by the President and approved by two-thirds of the Senate, giving the body the power of advice and consent. Once ratified, a treaty becomes legally binding on the United States and the other party, though implementing legislation may be needed domestically to put its provisions into effect. An executive agreement, by contrast, is a binding international commitment made by the President without Senate approval and does not have the same formal status as a treaty. A pocket veto is a legislative tactic used to block a bill by timing, not an international instrument. Impoundment is a budgeting action where the executive withholds funds and also does not create an international obligation.

In U.S. practice, formal international agreements that bind countries under international law are treaties. They must be negotiated by the President and approved by two-thirds of the Senate, giving the body the power of advice and consent. Once ratified, a treaty becomes legally binding on the United States and the other party, though implementing legislation may be needed domestically to put its provisions into effect. An executive agreement, by contrast, is a binding international commitment made by the President without Senate approval and does not have the same formal status as a treaty. A pocket veto is a legislative tactic used to block a bill by timing, not an international instrument. Impoundment is a budgeting action where the executive withholds funds and also does not create an international obligation.