Trinidad and Tobago Denies Role in U.S. Oil Blockade as Regional and Global Developments Unfold
By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News |
Trinidad and Tobago has firmly denied any involvement in the United States–led blockade targeting sanctioned oil tankers entering Venezuela, as tensions continue to rise in the southern Caribbean.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar clarified on Wednesday that her country has not been asked to assist, nor is it participating in any blockade activities ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump. Her statement followed heightened rhetoric from President Trump, who announced that a growing U.S. naval presence in the Caribbean would intensify pressure on Venezuela.
The escalation comes after U.S. forces last week seized an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast—an unusual move that has drawn international attention and concern. President Trump, in a social media post, claimed Venezuela is “completely surrounded by the largest armada ever assembled in the history of South America,” warning of further action.
Speaking to reporters after attending the funeral of a former colleague, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago remains neutral and is not a party to any hostile action against Venezuela. She noted that the United States has made no request for assistance and stressed that any decisions taken by Washington fall within U.S. sovereign authority.
When questioned about Trinidad and Tobago’s stance should military strikes occur, the Prime Minister reiterated that her government’s priority is national safety and stability, adding that the country has no aggressive intent toward its South American neighbour.
Meanwhile, in Antigua and Barbuda, civil society groups have welcomed a major step toward constitutional reform. The New York–based Antigua and Barbuda Coalition for Reform and Education (ABCRE) described recent parliamentary announcements as a victory for public engagement and democratic advocacy.
Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin revealed in Parliament on Monday that deliberations will begin on improving legislative standing orders and revisiting the parliamentary oath of office—measures that could eventually pave the way for Antigua and Barbuda to transition to republican status.
ABCRE officials expressed optimism, noting that years of sustained public advocacy have contributed to the current momentum. The organization has also pledged to share its research and resources with government officials, while underscoring the importance of widespread public education before any formal move toward becoming a republic.
On the global economic front, the U.S. dollar weakened on Thursday following new data showing inflation rose less than expected in November. According to the U.S. Labor Department, inflation increased by 2.7 percent year-on-year, below the 3.1 percent forecast by economists. The softer data weighed on the dollar against major currencies, while the British pound strengthened amid mixed signals from the Bank of England following its latest rate decision.
