U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he has canceled a previously expected second wave of attacks on Venezuela, citing cooperation from the South American nation following last week’s U.S. military operation that captured President Nicolas Maduro.
Trump made the statement in a post on his Truth Social platform, where he described Venezuela’s release of a large number of political prisoners as “a very important and smart gesture” and a sign of “seeking peace.”
“This is a very important and smart gesture. The U.S.A. and Venezuela are working well together, especially as it pertains to rebuilding, in a much bigger, better, and more modern form, their oil and gas infrastructure,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“Because of this cooperation, I have canceled the previously expected second Wave of Attacks, which looks like it will not be needed, however, all ships will stay in place for safety and security purpose,” the post added. Trump also stated that at least $100 billion would be invested by major oil companies in Venezuela, with a meeting scheduled with oil executives at the White House on Friday.
The announcement follows the U.S. strike last week that resulted in the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during a dramatic military operation. Trump had previously indicated the possibility of further strikes if needed.
Trump’s comments came hours after an interview on Fox News’ “Hannity” program, where he said Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado would visit Washington next week—a shift from his earlier dismissal of working with her, citing lack of support and respect within the country. On Wednesday, Trump told the New York Times that the U.S. was “getting along very well” with Venezuela’s acting interim government under Delcy Rodriguez.
No immediate response was available from Venezuelan officials or opposition figures as of early Friday. The U.S. military presence, including ships off Venezuela’s coast, will remain in position despite the cancellation of additional attacks.
