Image Source: MSN
World – United States President Donald Trump announced Friday that he has called off a planned second wave of military attacks against Venezuela following the release of political prisoners by the interim government.
The decision marks a shift in Washington’s approach after last weekend’s military operation that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.
Trump outlined plans for American involvement in rebuilding Venezuela’s energy sector, with major oil companies preparing substantial investments. He scheduled a White House meeting with oil industry executives to discuss the reconstruction plans.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Venezuela is releasing large numbers of political prisoners as a sign of ‘Seeking Peace.’ This is 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.”
Trump added, “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. At least 100 Billion Dollars will be invested by BIG OIL, all of whom I will be meeting with today at The White House.”
South Africa Condemns US Military Action
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola condemned the United States military strikes against Venezuela on Friday.
Speaking at a public participation event in Rustenburg, Lamola reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism and said the country must continue to advocate for a rules-based international order grounded in international law.
Lamola denounced the abduction of Maduro and his spouse, who are facing trial in the United States. US special forces took the couple to the United States early Saturday morning. In his first court appearance in New York on Monday, Maduro pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and other charges.
The Minister warned that powerful states are attempting to return the world to an era defined by colonial-style domination. The principles enshrined in the UN Charter must be upheld.
“As the machinations of powerful States threaten to return us to an era when international relations were defined by trusteeship, mandates and spheres of influence, the need to stay true to our values and principles couldn’t be more pressing.”
Reform of International Institutions
Lamola said the rule of law remains fundamental to global stability and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to multilateralism with the UN at its centre.
This period of geopolitical tension will determine whether the UN fulfils its commitments or if the world reverts to an age of wars, fragmentation and racial hierarchy.
The Minister argued that the current crisis shows why international institutions need structural reform. The UN cannot function effectively when dominated by a single power or group of powers. Its legitimacy depends on representing all nations equally.
Lamola called for urgent reform of international institutions. Multilateralism cannot withstand current pressures without significant changes.
South Africa views its foreign policy as inseparable from domestic objectives, describing it as a tool for creating conditions for inclusive growth and decent work.
“If multilateralism is to survive the current geopolitical headwinds, reform is no longer an option.”
