Post by : Rameen Ariff

The Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago has authorized United States military aircraft to use its airports, raising concerns about a possible escalation in the region near Venezuela. The archipelago, located just about 12 kilometers from Venezuela at its closest point, has shown strong support for President Donald Trump’s campaign of military and economic pressure on Caracas.

According to Trinidad’s foreign ministry, the green light allows Washington to use local airports for logistical purposes, including supply replenishment and routine personnel rotations. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar confirmed that the country is cooperating with the United States as it expands its military presence in the Caribbean.

US officials have framed these operations as efforts to counter narco-terrorists, but experts note the move also reflects heightened pressure on Venezuela and its leftist leader, Nicolas Maduro, whom the US does not recognize as the legitimate president. In October, a US guided missile destroyer docked off Trinidad for four days of joint exercises within firing range of Venezuela. Last month, US Marines also participated in drills across the archipelago.

The United States has further strengthened its surveillance capabilities in the region by installing radar at a new airport in Tobago. Officials say this system is aimed at detecting Venezuelan drug trafficking and preventing sanctions-violating oil shipments. However, Caracas has criticized Trinidad and Tobago’s cooperation with the US. Venezuelan authorities accused the island nation of taking part in what they called the “theft” of Venezuelan oil after US forces seized a tanker reportedly violating sanctions. The move was denounced by Venezuela as an act of international piracy.

Vice President Delcy Rodriguez of Venezuela also accused Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar of pursuing a “hostile agenda” against Venezuela and reiterated that Caracas would halt natural gas exploration with its neighbor. Responding to the criticism, Trinidadian Foreign Minister Sean Sobers defended the decision as part of the government’s commitment to regional safety and security, emphasizing cooperation to protect Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean region.

As tensions continue to rise, the strategic location of Trinidad and Tobago has made the archipelago a critical hub for US military operations in the Caribbean, especially amid the growing confrontation between Washington and Caracas over oil, sanctions, and regional influence. Analysts believe the ongoing military collaboration highlights the increasing stakes for security and stability in the Caribbean.

#Global News