Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has firmly stated that her country will not be coerced or manipulated in its security efforts, accusing certain Caribbean Community (Caricom) nations of aligning with Venezuela amidst escalating regional tensions. During a live interview on the Crime Watch programme with Ian Alleyne, Persad-Bissessar expressed disappointment with Caricom’s reliability, emphasizing that some member states have prioritized Venezuela over Trinidad and Tobago. She vowed that no external entity would pressure or blackmail her administration in its fight against crime and drug trafficking. This statement comes amid heightened security concerns in the Caribbean, including increased U.S. military presence and allegations of Venezuelan-backed drug cartels. The U.S. has deployed a nuclear-powered submarine, reconnaissance aircraft, and destroyers to the region, conducting airstrikes against suspected traffickers. While Trinidad and Tobago supports these efforts, Venezuela has accused the U.S. of destabilizing the region. Persad-Bissessar denied claims of colluding with Washington to undermine Venezuela, stressing that her government has not engaged in energy-related negotiations with Caracas. She also highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s domestic security challenges, including rising crime rates, and announced plans to extend the state of emergency declared in July. The Prime Minister reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to regional security and international anti-narcotics initiatives, while maintaining solidarity with the Venezuelan people.