A problem when sending messages on the messages app

I’ve been experiencing this issue for about a week now while using macOS 15.7.1. Occasionally, the return key doesn’t send messages when smart replies are visible at the bottom of the window. I have to close them first before I can hit return to send any message. I don’t want to completely turn off Apple Intelligence, as I frequently use writing tools due to not being a native English speaker. What can I do in this situation to eliminate the smart replies, or at least ensure the return key always sends messages?