President Trump Announces Progress in Venezuela, Cancels Second Wave of Action
President Donald Trump has called off a planned second set of actions in Venezuela, praising the country’s cooperation with the United States after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife.
In a message shared online, President Trump noted that Venezuela is releasing a large number of political prisoners, calling it a sign of their desire for peace. He described this move as both important and smart.
The President also stated that the United States and Venezuela are working together to rebuild Venezuela’s oil and gas infrastructure in a bigger, better, and more modern way. He mentioned that significant investments, potentially reaching $100 billion, will be made by major oil companies.
Earlier in the week, the U.S. military carried out a strike in Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, successfully taking Maduro and his wife into custody. Following this, President Trump announced that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela until a proper transfer of power could be arranged. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been working with remaining government officials, including Maduro’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who has since been appointed as interim president.
President Trump had indicated that a larger second action was planned but might not be necessary given the initial success and Venezuela’s changed attitude. He confirmed the cancellation of the second action but emphasized that U.S. ships would remain in the area to ensure safety and security.
The U.S. had been increasing its military presence near Venezuela for several months, including naval fleets, fighter jets, and personnel.
Before these developments, Venezuelan human rights groups estimated that the country held hundreds of political prisoners. The release of these prisoners is seen as a positive step toward stability and reconciliation.
Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez stated that a significant number of people were freed. Among those released was Biago Pilieri, who worked on opposition leader María Corina Machado’s presidential campaign. Enrique Márquez, another opposition member and presidential candidate, was also seen celebrating with Pilieri after their release.
The Spanish government confirmed that five of its citizens were released. These individuals had been arrested by Venezuelan authorities on accusations of being spies, a claim Spain denied.
Maduro and his wife have been brought to New York to face charges of narcoterrorism. The U.S. government had previously accused Maduro of leading a drug cartel and intentionally flooding other countries with cocaine.
To combat drug trafficking, the War Department has been conducting military strikes on suspected drug-running boats, sinking numerous vessels.
President Trump also mentioned that he will be meeting with leaders of U.S. oil companies at the White House. This meeting is likely related to plans for investing in and rebuilding Venezuela’s oil infrastructure.
Many Venezuelans, especially those who have left the country, have expressed their happiness with these changes.
