Carib Scope

分类： politics

  • Barbados goes to the polls for another snap election on February 11

    Barbados goes to the polls for another snap election on February 11

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has officially declared February 11, 2026, as the date for the nation’s next general election, marking her second consecutive early electoral call. The announcement came during a significant political gathering at Westbury Primary School, where the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) finalized its candidate nomination process for the City of Bridgetown constituency.

    The event witnessed attorney Michael Lashley securing his nomination as the BLP’s candidate, completing the party’s full slate of 30 contenders. Lashley, who transitioned from the Democratic Labour Party to join the BLP just last year, faced no opposition during the nomination process.

    Prime Minister Mottley disclosed that she had formally consulted with President The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic at State House earlier in the day, initiating the constitutional process for dissolution. She subsequently directed Attorney General Dale Marshall, present at the gathering, to commence immediate preparations for the election writs.

    According to the established timeline, Barbados’ Parliament will undergo formal dissolution on January 19, with Nomination Day scheduled for January 27, creating a three-week campaign period leading to the February 11 election. Mottley, who secured overwhelming victories for the BLP in both the 2018 and 2022 elections, now seeks an unprecedented third consecutive term as the nation’s leader, testing her party’s continued dominance against the opposition Democratic Labour Party.

  • COMMENTARY: Between A Rock And A Hard Place

    COMMENTARY: Between A Rock And A Hard Place

    The recent imposition of visa sanctions against Antigua and Barbuda by the United States administration represents a calculated geopolitical maneuver rather than a mere response to alleged governance failures. While surface-level justifications cite concerns over drug trafficking and weaknesses in the Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP), a deeper examination reveals these accusations serve as pretexts for broader strategic objectives outlined in the US National Security Strategy of December 2025.

    The 29-page security document explicitly articulates Washington’s intent to reassert the Monroe Doctrine and eliminate non-hemispheric competitors’ influence throughout the Americas. This strategic framework provides context for the punitive measures against the dual-island nation, which possesses neither military capabilities nor substantive threat capacity against the United States. With a population of merely 100,000 citizens and no history of aggression, Antigua and Barbuda’s designation as a national security threat appears strategically disproportionate.

    The administration’s actions align with documented objectives to discourage regional partnerships with US adversaries, particularly China. Antigua and Barbuda’s significant Chinese assets, including an substantial embassy presence, have positioned the nation at the center of hemispheric power dynamics. The visa restrictions function as soft power instrumentation designed to create domestic pressure compelling policy changes.

    Three primary objectives underlie the sanctions: securing a deportee memorandum of understanding, severing Chinese relations, and demonstrating US regional dominance. The characterization of Antiguan and Barbudan citizens as ‘destabilizing populations’ within security documents further reveals the administration’s perceptual framework. This situation places Antigua and Barbuda’s government in a profoundly challenging position, balancing domestic welfare against international geopolitical pressures.

  • Guyana strengthens border defences following US invasion of Venezuela

    Guyana strengthens border defences following US invasion of Venezuela

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – In response to escalating political instability in neighboring Venezuela, the Guyanese government has announced a significant reinforcement of its border defense systems. Prime Minister Mark Phillips, a retired Brigadier, confirmed that national security forces have elevated their operational readiness and intensified surveillance activities along the western territorial boundaries.

    This security enhancement follows the January 3rd United States military intervention in Venezuela that resulted in the extraction of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife to New York, where they now face narcotics trafficking charges in federal court. The US government, despite previous denials of pursuing regime change, has subsequently declared its intention to administer Venezuelan affairs indefinitely.

    The historical territorial dispute between Guyana and Venezuela centers on the Essequibo region, a substantial territory comprising approximately two-thirds of Guyana’s national territory along South America’s northeastern coastline. Prime Minister Phillips emphasized that while routine cross-border movements continue unchanged, defense personnel maintain permanent deployment along all international borders, including those with Suriname and Brazil.

    Phillips conducted personal assessments in Region One, consulting with defense board representatives, regional officials, law enforcement agencies, and local communities. He noted that improved internet connectivity in hinterland regions has kept border populations well-informed about developing situations.

    The Prime Minister articulated Guyana’s dual approach of maintaining diplomatic balance while prioritizing national security interests. Although Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states may adopt varying stances regarding Venezuela, Phillips affirmed Guyana’s commitment to independent decision-making aligned with sovereign national interests.

    “We maintain vigilant observation protocols to prevent border instability spillover,” Phillips stated during his podcast appearance. “Our administration rejects complacency and remains dedicated to preserving territorial integrity while ensuring border residents’ continued security.”.

  • US Treasury chief says retaliatory EU tariffs over Greenland ‘unwise’

    US Treasury chief says retaliatory EU tariffs over Greenland ‘unwise’

    DAVOS, Switzerland – At the World Economic Forum on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent issued a stern warning to European nations considering retaliatory measures against President Trump’s proposed tariffs targeting Greenland’s sovereignty. Bessent characterized potential countermeasures as “highly unwise” during his press briefing at the Swiss resort.

    The treasury official articulated the administration’s position that Greenland represents a “strategic asset” critical to American hemispheric security interests. “We are not prepared to outsource our security to any other nation,” Bessent stated emphatically, drawing historical parallels to previous US territorial acquisitions.

    Addressing questions about Trump’s controversial communication with Norway’s prime minister – which appeared to connect the Greenland initiative to the Nobel Peace Prize – Bessent dismissed such connections as “complete canards.” He maintained that the administration’s motivations were purely strategic rather than personal.

    The controversy stems from Trump’s weekend announcement imposing 10% tariffs on eight European nations – including Britain, Germany, France and Scandinavian countries – effective February 1. These measures would remain until Denmark agrees to transfer control of its autonomous territory.

    European leaders have denounced the strategy as economic “blackmail,” with Germany’s Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil confirming that continental countermeasures are in development. Bessent remained uncompromising, urging observers to “take President Trump at his word” regarding the administration’s determination.

    The treasury secretary emphasized Greenland’s geopolitical significance, particularly its substantial rare earth mineral deposits essential for advanced technologies. He expressed concerns about Chinese influence, noting Beijing’s existing mining operations on the island and potential future leverage over Danish policies.

  • Venezuela’s acting President remembers Assistance Day

    Venezuela’s acting President remembers Assistance Day

    The Venezuelan government has publicly condemned what it describes as a severe armed aggression against its territory, resulting in significant casualties and the alleged abduction of high-ranking officials. According to official statements, the incident on January 3rd led to the deaths of 32 Cuban and Venezuelan combatants and involved the kidnapping of President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.

    In response to the attack, the administration has initiated a comprehensive support program for affected families in Ciudad Tiuna. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced via Telegram that the government is providing medical care, psychological counseling, food assistance, and rehabilitation services to more than 460 impacted individuals.

    Rodríguez emphasized the unifying response among Venezuelans, stating that the nation stands together in rejecting all forms of aggression that threaten national peace and stability. She underscored the government’s historical responsibility to maintain national unity, protect social and economic stability, and ensure a hopeful future for coming generations.

    The acting president further warned against divisive tactics employed by external enemies and internal extremists, calling for continued national cohesion. She advocated for measured responses characterized by calmness, patience, and strategic prudence, invoking Venezuela’s historical legacy of overcoming adversity through unity and resilience.

  • Randy Baltimore to Open St. Philip’s North Constituency Branch Centre in Willikies

    Randy Baltimore to Open St. Philip’s North Constituency Branch Centre in Willikies

    The political landscape of St. Philip’s North constituency is set to expand with the formal inauguration of a new constituency branch center in Willikies. Randy Baltimore, the designated caretaker representative for the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), will preside over the opening ceremony scheduled for Sunday, January 18th at 3:00 PM.

    This strategically positioned facility will serve as the official St. Philip’s North Constituency Branch Centre, creating a dedicated space for political activities, community engagement, and constituent services. The establishment represents a significant infrastructure investment in local political operations, aiming to strengthen grassroots connections between the ABLP representation and the community.

    Constituency officials have circulated formal invitations encouraging public participation in the inaugural event. The opening ceremony symbolizes not merely the unveiling of a physical space but the reinforcement of political accessibility and community-focused governance in the region. The Willikies location was strategically selected to maximize outreach effectiveness across the constituency.

  • Salvadorans demand freedom for President Nicolas Maduro

    Salvadorans demand freedom for President Nicolas Maduro

    In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, representatives from veterans’ organizations, survivors disabled during the 1980s armed conflicts, and political factions including the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN) gathered at the monument to Latin American hero Simon Bolivar. The assembly voiced strong opposition to what they characterized as United States aggression against the Bolivarian people.

    Multiple speakers denounced the resurgence of what they described as the ‘gunboat policy’ inherent in the Monroe Doctrine, asserting that the Trump administration has revitalized its most aggressive interpretation toward nations throughout the Americas. The discourse highlighted concerns over Washington’s interventionist approach in regional affairs.

    The ceremony also served as a memorial for the more than 80 Venezuelan defenders and 32 Cuban internationalists who perished on January 3rd while protecting Venezuela’s sovereignty and its elected leadership. Participants honored these individuals as martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice resisting foreign intervention.

    Carlos Martinez, a prominent FMLN sectoral leader, delivered a forceful condemnation of what he termed ‘fascist aggression,’ stating: ‘Maduro confronts an illegitimate judicial proceeding orchestrated within the heart of the empire—a proceeding that fundamentally violates established international legal standards and Venezuelan self-determination.’

    The Schafik Handal Center for Studies’ Cuba Chapter joined both the denunciations and tributes, expressing unwavering solidarity with Cuban citizens and government officials during the funerary ceremonies for those killed in Venezuela. The collective gathering emphasized continuing resistance against perceived imperialist policies and affirmed support for Venezuela’s right to self-governance.

  • Belize Teams Up with U.S. to Crack Down on Immigration Crime

    Belize Teams Up with U.S. to Crack Down on Immigration Crime

    In a significant bilateral security development, the Belizean government has formally authorized the establishment of a specialized joint investigative unit in collaboration with United States authorities to combat immigration-related criminal activities. The landmark decision, ratified by Belize’s Cabinet this week, creates an operational partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, with the unit being headquartered at the American Embassy in Belmopan.

    The cooperative framework will be officially cemented through a Memorandum of Understanding between both nations, as detailed in an official government press release issued Wednesday. This strategic alignment represents a deepening of cross-border security cooperation between the Central American nation and its northern partner.

    This security initiative follows closely on the heels of another recently implemented bilateral program launched on January 12th that established advanced biometric data-sharing capabilities between the two countries. The previously introduced system deployed cutting-edge fingerprint scanning and facial recognition technology at Belize’s primary airports and strategic border checkpoints, significantly enhancing monitoring capabilities and movement tracking protocols.

    The consecutive implementation of these sophisticated security measures demonstrates a concerted effort to modernize border management systems and strengthen institutional capabilities against transnational crime networks exploiting immigration pathways. The integrated approach combining investigative coordination through the new joint unit with technological advancements in biometric verification creates a comprehensive framework addressing both enforcement and prevention dimensions of immigration security.

  • Venezuela denies alleged decoration for CIA chief

    Venezuela denies alleged decoration for CIA chief

    The Venezuelan government has issued a formal denial through its official communication channel @AlMomento_M regarding what it characterizes as malicious disinformation circulating on social media platforms. The disputed content allegedly featured manipulated imagery suggesting the Venezuelan government had awarded honors to foreign intelligence services.

    In a strongly worded rebuttal, the government-affiliated account stated: “We categorically deny the malicious information circulating on social media about an alleged decoration with honors for foreign intelligence agencies.” The response was accompanied by a visual analysis demonstrating clear signs of digital manipulation within the controversial image, prominently featuring the word “Fake” superimposed over the disputed material.

    The incident highlights ongoing information warfare challenges facing the South American nation, where both government and opposition groups frequently accuse each other of deploying sophisticated disinformation campaigns. This particular fabrication appears to target the sensitive subject of international intelligence relationships, a particularly charged topic given Venezuela’s complex diplomatic positioning.

    Digital forensics experts note that the proliferation of such manipulated content has increased significantly across Latin American political landscapes, with various actors employing increasingly sophisticated photo-editing techniques to create persuasive but false narratives. The Venezuelan government’s prompt response indicates established protocols for countering potentially damaging misinformation before it gains broader traction.

    The controversy emerges amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the region, where intelligence cooperation agreements often serve as indicators of shifting international alliances. Authorities have not specified which foreign intelligence agencies were purportedly referenced in the fabricated image, nor have they identified potential sources behind the disinformation campaign.

  • Panama and Brazil advocate for increasing trade

    Panama and Brazil advocate for increasing trade

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino and Brazilian leader Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva conducted a substantive telephone conversation focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation and regional integration. The discussion, announced through President Mulino’s official X (formerly Twitter) profile, centered on strategic priorities for Latin American collaboration.

    The presidential dialogue addressed Mulino’s potential participation in the prestigious International Economic Forum organized by the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), scheduled for late January 2026 in Brazil. This high-level summit will convene political authorities and business leaders from across the region to address critical economic integration initiatives and global challenges.

    Both heads of state reached consensus on the imperative to strengthen ties among Latin American nations, with particular emphasis on revitalizing partnerships within the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) framework. The leaders specifically highlighted Panama’s strategic role as a regional logistics hub and its potential synergy with MERCOSUR member states.

    This diplomatic exchange occurs amidst ongoing preparations for the CAF summit and follows President Mulino’s recent attendance at the signing ceremony of the landmark Partnership Agreement between MERCOSUR and the European Union in Asunción, Paraguay. The telephone consultation represents part of broader efforts to amplify trade, investment, and multilateral cooperation between Panama and Brazil, thereby accelerating regional economic integration processes.