Trump cancels 2nd wave of attacks on Venezuela, citing improved cooperation

ISTANBUL

US President Donald Trump said Friday that he cancelled a second wave of military attacks on Venezuela, citing improved cooperation from the South American country.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said Venezuela had released “large numbers of political prisoners,” describing the move as a sign of the country “seeking peace” and calling it 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.

"Because of this cooperation, I have cancelled 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 purposes," Trump said.

The US carried out a Jan. 3 military operation in Venezuela, capturing President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores. Trump said his administration would "run" Venezuela and its oil assets during a transition period.

Later Friday, Trump will sit with top oil executives at the White House. He said they will invest "at least" $100 billion in Venezuela.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump had said that Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado will be coming "next week sometime" to Washington, DC. “And I look forward to saying hello to her.”