Trump Cancelled Venezuela Strikes After Prisoner Release, Eyes Oil Deals

President Donald Trump stated on Friday that he called off planned military strikes against Venezuela. He said the decision followed the Venezuelan government's move to release some prisoners. The comments came as Trump prepared to meet with executives from major U.S. oil companies. He said these firms are ready to invest at least $100 billion in Venezuela, which holds the world's largest oil reserves. Trump's remarks suggest a continued willingness to use force in Venezuela. The U.S. does not recognize the country's current leftist president, Nicolás Maduro. Washington removed its recognition of Maduro earlier this year. The implied message was clear: aggressive U.S. actions could be paused for cooperation, but the threat remains. Trump has repeatedly vowed to force a change in Venezuela's leadership.