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.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
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Antigua and Barbuda Nominated for Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at 2025 World Cruise Awards
Antigua and Barbuda has been shortlisted for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination at the 5th Annual World Cruise Awards 2025. The announcement, made by Antigua Cruise Port, highlights the nation’s dedication to providing exceptional experiences for cruise passengers. The nomination is a testament to the efforts of destination ambassadors who have played a pivotal role in enhancing the visitor experience. The public is now being urged to cast their votes before the November 16, 2025 deadline. A statement from the organization emphasized, ‘Let’s unite and show the world why Antigua & Barbuda continues to shine as a premier Caribbean cruise destination,’ while expressing gratitude to supporters for their unwavering trust in the country’s tourism industry. This recognition underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to maintaining its status as a top-tier destination in the global cruise market.
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PM Says New Crane Marks Major Step Toward Transshipment Hub
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has heralded the commissioning of a state-of-the-art cargo-handling crane at the Deepwater Harbour as a pivotal milestone in Antigua and Barbuda’s ambitious plan to establish itself as a regional transshipment hub. The new crane, Browne emphasized, is not merely an operational enhancement but a strategic investment in the nation’s future, symbolizing the government’s dedication to modernization, competitiveness, and global connectivity. This development follows an estimated EC$500 million investment in modernizing both cargo and cruise ports over recent years. The prime minister highlighted that the crane will significantly boost cargo-handling capacity, streamline turnaround times, and enhance the reliability of port operations. These improvements are expected to facilitate business operations, benefiting importers, exporters, and local entrepreneurs through faster and more efficient services. Browne articulated a broader vision of transforming Antigua and Barbuda into a premier regional transshipment port, leveraging expanded capabilities, cutting-edge technology, and robust logistics infrastructure to attract major shipping lines. Increased cargo volumes are anticipated to reduce freight and handling costs, thereby lowering the overall cost of doing business. The government also foresees heightened revenues from taxes, fees, and port-related services as transshipment activities grow. Additionally, the initiative is projected to generate employment opportunities for technicians, engineers, logistics specialists, and young professionals entering the maritime sector. Beyond the port, Browne envisions the burgeoning maritime economy spurring new industries such as bunkering, ship repair, marine supplies, and warehousing. He concluded that the transformation of the port into a transshipment hub will serve as a major driver of national economic growth and a significant contributor to the country’s GDP. The crane, Browne declared, stands as a “symbol of progress,” signaling Antigua and Barbuda’s readiness to thrive in a competitive global environment.
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Branch Office Burglarized; Police Launch Investigation
Authorities are currently probing a break-in at a political branch office located on Federation Road, where intruders forcibly entered the premises and absconded with several items. The incident is estimated to have occurred between 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, and 8 a.m. on Wednesday, 12 November 2025. The office secretary confirmed that the building was securely locked the previous afternoon but was discovered breached upon the staff’s return the following morning. Preliminary reports indicate that the perpetrator(s) utilized a heavy tool to pry open an eastern door to gain access. Among the stolen items were a laptop, a composition book, and two AAA batteries, though the total value of the missing goods remains undetermined. Despite a thorough search of the vicinity, no suspects have been apprehended. Forensic experts have been summoned to examine the scene meticulously as the investigation continues.
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Tourism Awards Nominees Announced for Chef of the Year and Young Chef of the Year
The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association has unveiled the nominees for the prestigious 2025 Tourism Awards, spotlighting exceptional culinary talent in the Chef of the Year and Young Chef of the Year categories. This annual event honors professionals whose expertise, creativity, and commitment elevate the nation’s tourism industry. The nominees represent a roster of Antigua’s premier hospitality establishments, including Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Cocobay Resort, Hermitage Bay, Jumby Bay Island, Keyonna Beach Resort, Royalton Antigua, Sandals Grande Antigua, The Verandah Antigua, and Trade Winds Hotel. The winners will be revealed on November 29 at the Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua. This year’s gala, themed ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ is a collaborative effort between the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association, the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and Antigua and Barbuda Tourism. The event underscores the vital role of culinary professionals in enhancing the country’s tourism appeal.
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Jamal Joseph of Green Bay Charged with Unlawful Possession of Firearm and Ammunition
In a decisive move to combat illegal firearms, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has arrested and charged 37-year-old Jamala Joseph of Green Bay for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. The incident occurred during a routine stop-and-search operation in the early hours of Friday, November 14, 2025. Officers from the Grays Farm Police Station intercepted a vehicle on George Street, Green Bay, following a community report. During the search, they uncovered a .25 Beretta pistol and two rounds of .25 ammunition. Joseph was promptly taken into custody and formally charged with possession of a firearm and ammunition. This arrest underscores the police force’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal weapons from the streets, ensuring the safety and security of all residents. The Royal Police Force continues to enforce strict measures against such violations, reinforcing their dedication to maintaining public order.
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Rotary Club of Antigua Donates Over $40,000 in Lifesaving Equipment to Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre
The Rotary Club of Antigua (RCA) has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda by contributing over $40,000 XCD to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC). This generous donation, made during an official visit by Rotary District 7030 Governor Soraya Warner-Gustave, is earmarked for the acquisition of Bubble CPAP machines and pulse oximeters for the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
The Bubble CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines are crucial for the care of premature and critically ill newborns, offering non-invasive respiratory support that aligns with international NICU standards. This technology significantly reduces complications and improves survival rates among preterm infants. Additionally, the donation includes several pulse oximeters, which are essential for monitoring oxygen levels in newborns, enabling the NICU team to provide faster and more efficient care.
Michael Spencer, Past President of the Rotary Club of Antigua, emphasized the broader significance of the donation. ‘This is more than just equipment; it’s an investment in the future of our children,’ he said. ‘We are proud to support SLBMC in their mission to deliver high-quality neonatal care and ensure that even the tiniest patients receive the best possible start in life.’
Dr. Shivon Belle-Jarvis, Medical Director of SLBMC, expressed profound gratitude for the contribution. ‘The Rotary Club’s support continues to transform what’s possible for our patients,’ she noted. ‘These Bubble CPAP machines and pulse oximeters have already made a tangible difference in the care we provide. Countless babies and their families are benefiting from this investment.’
Elisa Graham, current President of the Rotary Club of Antigua, reiterated the organization’s commitment to community health. ‘Supporting the hospital and, by extension, the health of our nation, is something we take great pride in,’ she said. ‘Our work is only possible because of the generosity of our members and the community, who believe in Rotary’s mission of service above self.’
Beyond the immediate equipment, the donation will also fund additional resources to further strengthen neonatal care at SLBMC, underscoring RCA’s ongoing partnership with the medical centre and its dedication to improving patient outcomes.
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Antigua and Barbuda considers tuition-free education for nationals at the UWI Five Islands Campus
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is actively exploring the possibility of providing tuition-free education for its citizens at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. Prime Minister Gaston Browne revealed that the administration is currently reviewing the proposal, which aligns with its ongoing efforts to support higher education accessibility.
Browne emphasized that the government already subsidizes a substantial portion of student expenses through existing scholarship programs. ‘Nearly every student attending UWI Five Islands benefits from government scholarships,’ he stated. ‘Given this, we are now discussing the feasibility of eliminating tuition fees entirely. Since we are already covering most costs, it makes sense to make university education completely free for our nationals.’
The Prime Minister highlighted that this initiative would reinforce the government’s dedication to broadening access to higher education and fostering sustainable national development. By removing financial barriers, the policy aims to empower more citizens to pursue advanced education, ultimately contributing to the country’s socio-economic progress.
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Antigua and Barbuda’s National Culinary Team Arrives in Barbados for Regional Competition
The National Culinary Team of Antigua and Barbuda has made a grand entrance in Barbados, gearing up for the highly anticipated Taste of the Caribbean competition, hosted by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association. The event, scheduled from November 16 to 18, will see the team showcase their culinary prowess against regional rivals. Upon their arrival on Friday, the chefs and bartender were welcomed with a Barbados Transport Board bus adorned in Antigua and Barbuda branding—a gesture orchestrated by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. This initiative not only supports the team’s participation but also serves as a vibrant promotion of the nation’s culture and pride. Officials highlighted that the branded transport symbolizes a strong sense of national identity as the delegation embarks on their competitive journey. Over the three-day event, the team will face off against culinary experts from across the Caribbean, aiming to bring home accolades and further elevate their country’s reputation in the culinary arts.
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Team Antigua Island Girls Present Uncharted Waters—an evening of untold stories from their historic Pacific Ocean row
Team Antigua Island Girls, the groundbreaking all-Black female rowing team, invites the public to an exclusive event titled ‘Uncharted Waters.’ This intimate evening, scheduled for Friday, November 21, 2025, at the John E. St. Luce Financial and Conference Centre, will feature emotional storytelling and never-before-shared insights from their record-breaking 2023 Pacific Ocean crossing. The event begins at 7:15 p.m., with doors opening at 6:00 p.m. for a pre-show experience. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ‘Dadli Gyal,’ the boat that carried the team across 2,800 nautical miles over 47 days, sample the dehydrated meals that sustained the rowers, and participate in a raffle with prizes including a dinner for two at Jumby Bay. Tickets are priced at $150 for adults and $50 for youth under 16, available via the Ticketing app, Ken’s Club in Cassada Gardens, Kennedy’s in Powell’s, or SICON at the airport. All proceeds will support the establishment of a home for girls in conflict with the law, reflecting the team’s dedication to empowerment and social change. Team Antigua Island Girls, composed of Christal (author and swim instructor), Elvira (health and wellness coach), Kevinia (personal trainer and team captain), and Samara (Antigua and Barbuda’s first female boat captain), made history in 2018–2019 by rowing 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic. In 2023, Christal, Kevinia, and Samara took on the World’s Toughest Row—Pacific, inspiring global audiences with their determination and teamwork.