Trump-Venezuela Update: Attacks Cancelled and Oil Talks Begin

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Key takeaways

  • Second-wave attacks paused: Trump claims a previously planned strike on Venezuela was canceled after reports of detainee releases signaling peace.
  • Oil diplomacy: The White House plans to meet with major oil executives as US-Venezuela cooperation expands around oil infrastructure rebuilding.
  • Domestic scrutiny: Democrats press DHS oversight after an ICE killing in Minneapolis, threatening to use funding leverage.
  • Legal and global context: Tariff and sanctions questions loom at the Supreme Court; tensions with Russia and other actors persist.

Table of contents

Trump claims he cancelled second wave of attacks on Venezuela

In a late-night post, Trump asserted that he had cancelled the previously expected second wave of attacks on Venezuela after Caracas released large numbers of political prisoners as a sign of seeking peace. He wrote, “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.” He claimed that at least 100 Billion Dollars would be invested by BIG OIL, and that all ships would stay in place for safety and security.

Venezuela’s government had announced the release of an “important number” of detainees, said by opposition leaders to consolidate peace. Former opposition candidate Enrique Márquez was among those freed, according to opposition statements.

Venezuela detainee release as peace gesture

Officials described the move as part of a gesture to consolidate peace. The Guardian’s coverage notes the broader implications for regional stability and political dynamics inside Venezuela.

Trump to meet top US oil executives

Today in Washington, the president will meet with the CEOs of Exxon, Shell and ConocoPhillips, plus a Chevron representative. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is set to join, as the administration discusses next steps in Venezuela’s oil production and sanctions strategy.

Pope commentary on war and sovereignty

During the Vatican’s annual diplomatic address, Pope Leo criticized the use of force and warned that war is back in vogue, urging restraint and adherence to international norms amid ongoing conflicts.

Democrats react to ICE killing in Minneapolis

Lawmakers urged tighter DHS oversight, with calls for warrants for arrests and limits on enforcement, signaling potential shifts in immigration policy under the current administration.

Tariffs and Supreme Court decisions

The Supreme Court weighed whether the administration can invoke the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs without Congress, with possible refunds if decided otherwise.

Portland shooting incident

Reports confirm two people were shot by federal agents near a hospital in Portland, part of ongoing enforcement tied to immigration and security concerns.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2026/jan/09/trump-venezuela-oil-attacks-minnesota-portland-ice-supreme-court-tariffs-latest-news-updates


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