The arrival of the USS Gravely in Port of Spain on Sunday for a joint military exercise with Trinidad has sparked intense criticism from the Venezuelan government, which labeled the move as a ‘military provocation’ orchestrated by the CIA in collaboration with Trinidad and Tobago. Caracas alleges that these activities aim to destabilize Venezuela, particularly near the disputed Essequibo region, and represent an act of ‘imperial interference.’ This accusation has raised international concerns, with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley expressing alarm over escalating military tensions in the Caribbean. Mottley emphasized the need to avoid geopolitical power struggles in the region and called for immediate diplomatic coordination within the Caribbean Community (Caricom).
Surinamese President Jennifer Simons echoed these sentiments during a recent press conference, reiterating that South America and the Caribbean must remain a war-free zone. Simons highlighted Suriname’s commitment to peaceful dialogue, multilateral cooperation, and adherence to international law, warning that military escalation is never a viable solution. The heightened tensions surrounding Venezuela, coupled with the long-standing territorial dispute with Guyana and the growing geopolitical presence of major powers in the region, have prompted Caribbean leaders to advocate for urgent diplomatic discussions. They are urging a unified Caricom approach focused on peace, security, and regional stability.