US President Donald Trump announced today, January 9, 2026, that he has cancelled a 'previously expected second wave of attacks' on Venezuela. This significant de-escalation comes after Caracas reportedly released a 'large number' of political prisoners and demonstrated increased cooperation with the United States. Trump praised Venezuela's move as a 'very important and smart gesture' aimed at seeking peace. The decision also stems from improving collaboration between Washington and Caracas, particularly concerning the rebuilding and modernization of Venezuela's vast oil and gas infrastructure. Trump indicated that major oil companies are poised to invest at least $100 billion in Venezuela's energy sector, with meetings planned at the White House to discuss these initiatives. This development follows a recent US military operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who are now facing drug trafficking charges in New York. While a second military offensive has been called off, Trump affirmed that US ships and forces would remain in the region for 'safety and security purposes.' The releases include high-profile opposition figures and foreign nationals, seen by the Venezuelan acting government as a unilateral gesture towards peaceful coexistence. This shift marks a dramatic turn from earlier heightened tensions and signifies a potential recalibration towards diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation in US-Venezuela relations.