The government of Trinidad and Tobago has announced the arrival of the USS Gravely, a US guided-missile destroyer, for a five-day visit starting October 26. The warship, carrying members of the 22nd US Marine Expeditionary Unit, will dock in Port of Spain and engage in joint military training exercises with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF). The USS Gravely, equipped with advanced weapons systems and helicopter capabilities, has recently been involved in counter-narcotics and maritime security operations in the Caribbean. The visit underscores the US commitment to regional security and aims to enhance military cooperation through expert exchanges on infantry tactics, maintenance procedures, and medical capabilities. The exercises are designed to improve tactical proficiency, mutual trust, and operational readiness among partner forces. This development follows a recent advisory from the US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago, warning American citizens to avoid US government facilities during the Divali holiday weekend due to heightened security concerns. Additionally, the visit comes amid discussions among Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders regarding regional security dynamics. Trinidad and Tobago’s coalition government, led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has reiterated its support for US military operations, emphasizing their role in combating narco-trafficking, human trafficking, and transnational crime to foster a ‘zone of peace’ in the region. The Persad-Bissessar administration has received praise from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio for its alignment with regional security initiatives.
