分类： world

The Caribbean Sea witnessed a significant military presence on November 16, 2025, as the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, spearheaded by the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the world’s largest aircraft carrier, navigated through the Anegada Passage and entered the region. This deployment, under the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), follows directives from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to dismantle Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and counter narco-terrorism, aligning with the President’s priorities to safeguard the Homeland. Admiral Alvin Holsey, Commander of SOUTHCOM, emphasized the group’s readiness to combat transnational threats, stating, ‘The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group’s deployment reinforces our resolve to protect the security of the Western Hemisphere and the safety of the American Homeland.’ The strike group will join the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group and other joint forces as part of Joint Task Force Southern Spear, a mission designed to dismantle criminal networks exploiting shared borders and maritime domains. Rear Admiral Paul Lanzilotta, commander of Carrier Strike Group 12, highlighted the USS Gerald R. Ford’s capabilities as ‘the most capable, adaptable, and lethal platform in the world,’ ensuring its deployment where and when it matters most. With over 4,000 Sailors and dozens of tactical aircraft, the carrier enhances the U.S. military’s ability to project power through sustained operations. The strike group’s deployment began on June 24, 2025, with operations in the Atlantic Ocean, Arctic Circle, and Mediterranean Sea, including participation in NATO’s Neptune Strike 25-2 and 25-3 exercises. The group’s arrival in the Caribbean follows a transoceanic voyage through the Strait of Gibraltar. Accompanying the USS Gerald R. Ford are Carrier Air Wing Eight, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Bainbridge and USS Mahan, and the integrated air and missile defense command ship USS Winston S. Churchill. Operation Southern Spear, a Department of War initiative, aims to enhance security and stability across the Western Hemisphere by disrupting and degrading transnational criminal networks, reflecting the U.S. commitment to a safe and secure hemisphere.

In a stark reminder of Haiti’s escalating security crisis, suspected gang members opened fire on American forces guarding the US Embassy in Port-au-Prince earlier this week, according to a spokesperson. The incident underscores the precarious situation in the Caribbean nation, where gangs now control 90% of the capital, extorting businesses and battling for territory with heavy weaponry. Haitian police have yet to comment on the exchange of fire. The US continues to maintain its embassy in Haiti, but the State Department has repeatedly warned American citizens against traveling to the country due to rampant kidnappings, crime, terrorist activity, and civil unrest. The United Nations reports that gang violence has displaced over 1.3 million Haitians in recent years. The security situation has worsened significantly since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, which created a power vacuum that remains unresolved, with no elections held to replace him. In late September, the UN Security Council approved the deployment of a 5,500-strong international force to combat Haiti’s heavily armed criminal groups. However, a smaller Kenyan police contingent has struggled to contain the violence, which claimed 5,600 lives last year, according to the UN Human Rights Office.

Antigua Cruise Port has achieved a significant milestone by being nominated for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Terminal at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. This recognition underscores the port’s exceptional operational standards and commitment to delivering top-tier service. Port authorities have attributed this achievement to the unwavering dedication of their staff, the collaboration of industry partners, and the support of the local community. The nomination highlights the port’s growing influence in regional cruise tourism, as it continues to expand its infrastructure and services. The award, determined by public voting, is open for submissions until November 16, 2025. This nomination aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic goals to enhance homeporting activities and solidify St. John’s as a premier hub for Caribbean cruise itineraries. The public is encouraged to participate in the voting process to support this remarkable achievement.

The United States is set to conduct a five-day military exercise in Trinidad and Tobago, beginning this Sunday, as confirmed by the Caribbean nation. This announcement follows last month’s deployment of a guided-missile destroyer to the region for training purposes, a move that Venezuela labeled as a ‘military provocation.’ According to the Financial Times, Trinidad and Tobago’s Attorney General indicated that the US plans to ‘intensify’ its military activities in the twin-island nation, located just miles off Venezuela’s coast. Foreign Minister Sean Sobers has denied that these exercises are a prelude to potential US military action in Venezuela, despite growing global concerns over US activities in the region. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has supported the US presence, contrasting sharply with Venezuela’s socialist leader Nicolas Maduro, with whom she has had public disputes. The drills will involve the US Marine Corps’ 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is already in the region to aid in disrupting illicit drug trafficking. Trinidad and Tobago’s government stated that the exercises aim to enhance tactical familiarity between US and local troops and to train local forces in handling domestic issues like drug-related crime and gang violence. The US has recently bolstered its naval presence in the Caribbean, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, prompting Venezuela to announce a ‘massive mobilization’ of its military in response. This escalation has led to fears of a potential larger conflict between the two nations. While the US claims its military buildup is aimed at combating drug trafficking, experts question the necessity of such significant firepower, noting that the USS Gerald R. Ford represents the largest US military presence in the region since the 1989 invasion of Panama. President Donald Trump has expressed that he believes Maduro’s days are numbered and has not ruled out the possibility of US land strikes on Venezuela. Earlier this week, Trump was reportedly presented with options for military operations within Venezuela, though he has yet to make a decision and has previously expressed reservations about military action aimed at ousting Maduro. Maduro has urged the US against conflict, emphasizing a message of peace to Trump.