In a surprising turn, President Donald Trump announced on Friday that a planned “second wave” of attacks on Venezuela has been called off. The decision comes after Caracas announced the release of multiple political prisoners, signaling a move toward cooperation with Washington.
Trump praised Venezuela’s gesture as “smart” and emphasized that the two countries are now “working well together,” particularly on efforts to modernize Venezuela’s oil and gas infrastructure. Despite canceling the attacks, Trump said U.S. forces would remain in place for “safety and security purposes.”
The president also highlighted a massive investment by major oil companies, forecasting at least $100 billion to boost Venezuela’s energy production. This announcement follows Venezuela’s plan to sell up to 50 million barrels of oil to the U.S. at market price, with Washington overseeing the use of proceeds.
The backdrop of these developments includes the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores by U.S. special forces. The political prisoner releases were seen as a goodwill gesture from Maduro’s interim government, led by Delcy Rodriguez.
Trump is also expected to meet with Nobel Peace Prize-winning opposition leader Maria Corina Machado next week, though he stopped short of endorsing her as a future leader.This move marks a dramatic shift in U.S.-Venezuela relations, with Washington poised to play a major role in the South American nation’s energy sector.
Source: New York Post