Trump Cancels Venezuela Attack: Cooperation Cited
- Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that a planned second wave of actions against Venezuela has been called off, attributing the decision too what he describes...
- This proclamation follows the release of Biagio Pilieri, an aide to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, from the Helicoide prison in Caracas on Thursday.
- As of January 9, 2026, the status of these prisoner releases and the extent of cooperation on oil and gas infrastructure remains consistent with reports from late 2023.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that a planned second wave of actions against Venezuela has been called off, attributing the decision too what he describes as increased cooperation from the Venezuelan government. Trump, writing on his Truth Social platform, indicated that Venezuela is “working well” with the U.S. on the restoration of its oil and gas sector and the release of political prisoners, rendering further military or economic pressure unnecessary.
This proclamation follows the release of Biagio Pilieri, an aide to opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, from the Helicoide prison in Caracas on Thursday. Foro Penal,a human rights organization,confirmed Pilieri’s release. Jorge Rodriguez, head of the Venezuelan national Assembly, announced a broader release of prisoners, including five Spanish citizens who were freed earlier the same day.
As of January 9, 2026, the status of these prisoner releases and the extent of cooperation on oil and gas infrastructure remains consistent with reports from late 2023. Independent verification of the specifics of the infrastructure agreements is ongoing,and the long-term impact of these developments on U.S.-Venezuela relations is yet to be steadfast. The Biden administration has not yet publicly commented on Trump’s statement.