In a recent televised statement on Crimewatch, Trinidad and Tobago (TT) Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar expressed her dissatisfaction with Caricom, accusing the regional body of favoring Venezuela over TT. Her remarks came shortly after Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez announced that Venezuela would cease energy collaboration with TT, citing alleged aggression due to the presence of a US anti-narcotics fleet in the region. Persad-Bissessar dismissed these claims, asserting that TT does not rely on Venezuelan gas and has diversified its economy through energy and non-energy projects. She also emphasized that TT would not be used as a US military base, despite ongoing joint training exercises with the US aimed at enhancing internal security. The Prime Minister further criticized Caricom for its perceived unreliability, particularly in addressing TT’s challenges with drug trafficking, gang violence, and human trafficking. She also announced plans to extend the state of emergency (SoE) initially declared in July, citing a significant reduction in the murder rate. Meanwhile, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley condemned US military actions in the region, labeling them as extra-judicial killings and calling for adherence to international law. Persad-Bissessar concluded by offering support to TT students in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa and mobilizing aid for the island nation.