The possibility of U.S. military intervention in Venezuela has become a topic of intense speculation, particularly among citizens of Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. Many Guyanese view Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as a threat, given his territorial claims over two-thirds of Guyana and his veiled threats. The question of whether U.S. President Donald Trump will authorize strikes or an invasion to remove Maduro has been repeatedly posed to the President by reporters. While Trump has not directly addressed these queries, he has hinted at potential land strikes targeting drug-manufacturing facilities and camps labeled as terrorist organizations, which are allegedly responsible for shipping drugs to the U.S., causing thousands of deaths annually. Maduro, who has been accused of leading a terrorist organization, has denied these allegations and expressed a willingness to engage in discussions with the Trump administration. Trump has indicated openness to meeting with Venezuelan leadership and may send emissaries to negotiate Maduro’s departure from office. However, any talks would likely delay immediate military action. Strikes could be avoided if Maduro agrees to concessions, such as compensating Exxon and other oil companies nationalized by Venezuela, dismantling drug labs, and cracking down on criminal gangs. Venezuela’s role in drug production is relatively minor compared to Colombia and Bolivia, but its jungle airstrips are used to transport drugs to Central America, Mexico, and beyond. Reports from Guyana have uncovered secret airstrips and small aircraft linked to drug trafficking, implicating local police and military personnel. American intelligence has identified Guyana as a transshipment point for drugs destined for developed countries. Despite these issues, it is unlikely that Maduro will make sweeping concessions, leaving the door open for further U.S. strikes. Trump’s cabinet members have labeled Maduro an illegitimate ruler due to alleged election rigging, increasing the likelihood of targeted military action. However, Trump has previously expressed a desire to reduce U.S. foreign involvement, citing the country’s poor track record with regime changes in nations like Guyana, Haiti, and Iraq. A full-scale invasion of Venezuela carries significant risks, reminiscent of costly quagmires in Afghanistan and Iraq. While the U.S. military is prepared for such an operation, immediate large-scale intervention seems improbable. Air-powered strikes, however, remain a likely scenario, and the fall of the Maduro regime would likely be met with indifference or relief by Guyanese citizens.
作者： admin
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Prisons win 5th straight in TTPFL, edge 10-man Rangers 1-0
Prisons FC extended their flawless run in the 2025/26 TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) with a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Terminix La Horquetta Rangers at the St James Police Barracks on November 23. Despite a less-than-polished performance, a decisive 70th-minute header by substitute Ricardo John propelled Prisons back to the top of the 12-team league table, displacing Club Sando to second place. The match, part of a double-header at the barracks, began with both teams aggressively seeking an early advantage. However, the game’s momentum shifted in the 31st minute when Rangers defender Abdul Lezama received a second yellow card for a needless handball, reducing his team to ten men. Rangers managed to hold off Prisons’ attacks until halftime, with winger Jeremiah Vidale’s close-range effort saved and his follow-up shot hitting the crossbar. The second half saw Rangers adopt a defensive stance, while Prisons relentlessly pressed forward. Despite several missed opportunities, including a disallowed goal for offside and two squandered chances by John, the breakthrough came in the 70th minute when John headed in a cross from Israel Williams. Rangers’ late substitution, Tyrique Sutherland, nearly equalized in the 89th minute, but his powerful strike narrowly missed the target. Prisons now face a stern test against MIC Central FC Reboot on November 29 at the Arima Velodrome. In the day’s earlier match, 2023/24 champions AC Port of Spain rallied to defeat Point Fortin Civic 2-1, moving up to fifth in the standings. Meanwhile, Defence Force secured a late 2-1 victory over 1976 FC Phoenix, and Police FC surged to a 4-2 win against FC Eagles, solidifying their third-place position.
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Let’s clean up country
In a compelling letter to the editor, Arthur Dash has issued an urgent appeal to the Minister of Environment, urging the immediate launch of a comprehensive nationwide clean-up campaign. Dash highlights the alarming state of the country’s roadways, which are littered with discarded vehicles, tires, barrels, and various forms of waste. This pervasive neglect, he argues, sends a troubling message about the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship and public health.
Dash emphasizes that this initiative must be prioritized to demonstrate the country’s dedication to health and well-being, both domestically and internationally. He calls for the ministry to mobilize a broad coalition of stakeholders, including religious, cultural, sporting, and business organizations, to collaborate on this critical effort. The campaign, he suggests, should commence without delay, ideally before the Christmas and Carnival seasons, to maximize its impact and visibility.
Furthermore, Dash underscores the importance of involving local government authorities and professional entities to ensure the campaign’s success. He frames this initiative as a ‘people’s mandate,’ a collective endeavor that reflects the nation’s shared responsibility for its environment. Concluding his letter, Dash asserts that such a clean-up campaign would be the most meaningful gift to the nation, eagerly anticipated by its citizens.
The letter, signed by Paras Ramoutar from Caparo, serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for environmental action and the collective effort required to achieve it.
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Not goingback to thecolonial era
In Trinidad and Tobago (TT), a troubling trend is emerging, one that echoes the oppressive tactics of slavery and colonial rule. Recent restrictions on cultural events, inconsistent treatment of national celebrations, and the tightening of public expression are raising alarms. These measures are not indicative of modern governance but rather a regression to control mechanisms of the past. Carnival, Canboulay, stick-fighting, and pan—cultural traditions born out of resistance to oppression—are now under threat. These practices were created by people who were denied the right to celebrate, participate, and claim joy. When governments begin to limit, zone, or selectively approve cultural expression, they touch the deepest part of our history, where our ancestors fought for the right to exist openly. Alongside these cultural restrictions, harsh economic retrenchments, cuts to youth programs, and a lack of communication from national leadership are exacerbating the situation. Thousands of families are facing economic uncertainty, and young people, already grappling with violence, mental strain, unemployment, and social pressure, are losing the support systems designed to help them. The government’s withdrawal from social development, closure of youth spaces, and restrictions on cultural expression are creating a climate of frustration, hopelessness, and division. A nation cannot claim to be moving forward while dismantling the pillars that hold its people together. Culture, youth development, and fairness are lifelines, and all three are now under threat. These decisions are not ordinary; they carry weight and memory. TT has fought too long and too hard to reclaim its identity, expression, and equal cultural respect for any administration to erode it, intentionally or not. We must resist this regression, not quietly, not blindly, but with determination and resolve.
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Jorsling: Army must find a way to Champions Cup
Defence Force’s interim coach, Devorn Jorsling, emphasized the importance of securing a positive result in the first leg of the Concacaf Caribbean Cup third-place playoff against Cibao FC from the Dominican Republic. The match, scheduled for November 25 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo, holds significant stakes, as the winner will secure a spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. The Caribbean Cup finalists, Mount Pleasant Football Academy and Universidad O&M FC, have already qualified for the Champions Cup and will play their first leg on the same day. The return legs for both the third-place playoff and the final are set for December 2. Defence Force, coming off a 5-1 defeat against Mount Pleasant in the semifinals’ first leg, showed resilience by winning the second leg 1-0. Jorsling acknowledged the need for a strategic shift in their approach, stating, ‘We’re not going to park the bus, but the approach will be different.’ He reiterated the team’s primary goal of qualifying for the Concacaf Champions Cup, a target that remains achievable. Veteran defender Sheldon Bateau, who joined the team in September, highlighted the challenges of adapting to local football after a decade in Europe. He expressed his commitment to mentoring younger players and elevating the team’s performance. The 21-man squad includes notable players like Kevin Molino, Kevon Goddard, and Shaquille Bertrand, who will be crucial in their quest for victory.
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Defence Force pip QPCC to men’s indoor hockey title
In a thrilling conclusion to the TT Hockey Board’s (TTHB) National Indoor tournament, Defence Force emerged victorious in a nail-biting shootout against Queen’s Park Cricket Club (QPCC) in the men’s open division final. The match, held at the Woodbrook Youth Facility on November 22, was a spectacle of skill, determination, and high drama. Defence Force secured the title after a marathon shootout that saw ten shots, with national player Mickel Pierre delivering the decisive goal past goalkeeper Reiza Hosein. The game had ended regulation time tied at 5-5, setting the stage for the intense shootout. Defence Force had initially dominated, racing to a 4-0 lead by the 18th minute, thanks to goals from David Coker, Sheldon De Lisle, Tarrell Singh, and Shaquille Daniel. However, QPCC fought back valiantly, with Jordan Vieira leading the charge. Vieira’s two late goals, including his 29th of the division, tied the game and forced the shootout. Despite Vieira’s heroics, Defence Force’s Zeon Hamilton and Hosein proved formidable in goal, ultimately sealing the win for their team. This victory avenged Defence Force’s loss to QPCC in the men’s knockout final on November 16. In other tournament action, Police claimed third place in the men’s open division with a commanding 10-4 win over Paragon, while QPCC triumphed in the mixed vets final with a 7-5 victory over Police, powered by Shawn Lee Quay’s four-goal performance. Notre Dame dominated the men’s Trinity division final, with Nicholas Whiteman scoring six goals in a 10-4 win over SHAPE, and Magnolia secured the women’s Trinity division title with a 5-1 victory over Police, thanks to Natania Rowe’s brace.
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Police recover Glock 19, ammunition in La Croix Mingot stop and search
In a significant early morning operation on Thursday, November 20, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force successfully recovered an illegal firearm and ammunition during a routine stop and search in La Croix Mingot. The operation, conducted around 1:30 a.m., involved officers from the Special Services Unit in Castries who intercepted a vehicle with two occupants. The search yielded a Black Glock 19 handgun and 11 rounds of ammunition. The two individuals, identified as 34-year-old Melvin Montoute from St. Lawrence Street, Anse La Raye, and 27-year-old Shaquille De Leon from Marigot, were promptly taken into custody. Both men were formally charged with ‘Possession of a Firearm’ and ‘Possession of Ammunition.’ The following day, November 21, the First District Court granted Montoute and De Leon bail. Montoute was required to post $25,000 cash or provide a suitable surety for the firearm charge, while De Leon faced a $10,000 cash or surety requirement for the ammunition charge. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Saint Lucia law enforcement to combat illegal arms possession and enhance public safety.
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WIN leader prepares to challenge opposition leader election delay, extradition case may go to High Court
Azruddin Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, announced on Monday his intention to take legal action against House Speaker Manzoor Nadir for delaying the election of the Opposition Leader. Mohamed expressed skepticism about Nadir’s willingness to convene a meeting of opposition MPs to facilitate the election, despite WIN holding 16 of the 29 opposition seats in Parliament. Mohamed stated, ‘We have to move to the court,’ emphasizing his determination to proceed with legal measures. Meanwhile, Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs confirmed no plans for such a meeting. Mohamed’s lawyer, Siand Dhurjohn, revealed that legal proceedings are being prepared ahead of an ultimatum set to expire next Monday. Dhurjohn stressed the constitutional obligation to elect an Opposition Leader promptly, highlighting the role’s importance in democratic processes. Concurrently, Mohamed faces an extradition request from the United States, where he is accused of wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering. His legal team, led by Roysdale Forde and Dhurjohn, is preparing a constitutional challenge, arguing that the extradition process could take years. Prosecutor Terrence Williams, representing U.S. interests, submitted updated documents to the court, though defense lawyers noted these were not yet properly processed through diplomatic channels. The case is set to resume on November 28, with further developments expected.
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International reggae legend, Jimmy Cliff, dies at 81
The world of music mourns the loss of Jimmy Cliff, the iconic Jamaican singer, actor, and reggae ambassador, who passed away at the age of 81. His wife announced his passing in an emotional Instagram post, revealing that he succumbed to complications following a seizure and pneumonia. She expressed gratitude for the support of family, friends, and fellow artists who shared in his remarkable journey. Cliff’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on global music culture. His timeless hits, including “You Can Get It If You Really Want,” “Many Rivers to Cross,” and “Wonderful World, Beautiful People,” continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Born in Saint James, Jamaica, in 1944, Cliff’s musical journey began in the early 1960s in Kingston, where he collaborated with producer Leslie Kong. His international breakthrough came with the 1972 film “The Harder They Come,” a pioneering Caribbean classic that showcased his talent and solidified his status as a reggae icon. The film’s soundtrack, featuring Cliff’s iconic songs, remains a cornerstone of reggae music. Cliff’s contributions to music were widely recognized, earning him Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2003 and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2021, the U.S. Library of Congress preserved the soundtrack of “The Harder They Come” in the National Recording Registry. Cliff’s career also included a Grammy-winning cover of Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” in 1994 and the release of his final album, “Refugees,” in 2022. Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness paid tribute to Cliff, praising his ability to inspire generations and elevate Jamaican culture globally. “Walk good, Jimmy Cliff. Your legacy lives on,” Holness wrote on X.
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Staatsolie opent offshore-deur voor wereldwijde investeerders
Suriname has officially unveiled its Open-Door Offering, a groundbreaking initiative designed to provide international oil and gas companies with flexible access to a significant portion of its offshore territory. Launched by Staatsolie on Monday, this strategic move aims to bolster Suriname’s standing in the Guiana Basin and attract investors to explore both shallow and deep-water blocks. Approximately 60% of the nation’s offshore area is now available for exploration, offering companies the opportunity to select their preferred blocks and submit tailored work programs. The initiative features attractive fiscal terms, low surface risks, and a stable, investment-friendly environment to enhance global interest. Companies can opt for Production Sharing Contracts or Joint Study Agreements for collaborative analysis. Selected areas will be publicly listed on the Open-Door Offering webpage, allowing competitors to submit rival proposals within a 90-day window. Concurrently, Staatsolie introduced the GeoPortal, an interactive platform providing comprehensive geological and geophysical data, available for lease at favorable rates. Additionally, the company released the GeoAtlas of Suriname, a detailed resource based on decades of data collection and analysis, offering a complete overview of the Guiana Basin’s geology and potential. The GeoAtlas is freely downloadable from Staatsolie’s website, further supporting exploration efforts.