The government of Trinidad and Tobago has confirmed it will permit the United States military to use its airports in the coming weeks. This decision comes as geopolitical tensions between the US and Venezuela continue to escalate, sparking concerns that the Caribbean nation may become entangled in a wider regional conflict.
Radar Installation and Military Presence Raises Questions
This announcement follows the recent and discreet installation of a sophisticated military-grade radar system at the ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago. While the Trinidad and Tobago government insists the radar is solely for combating local crime and has pledged the country will not be used as a launchpad for attacks, critics remain deeply sceptical.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar initially described a visiting US C-17 aircraft as carrying marines to assist with a road project. However, she later admitted that at least 100 US marines were in the country alongside the radar, believed to be a long-range AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR system used for air defence and surveillance.
Logistical Support or Strategic Foothold?
In an official statement, Trinidad and Tobago's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the US would utilise the airports for activities "logistical in nature", such as supply replenishment and routine personnel rotations. The statement provided no further specifics, leaving room for interpretation.
The strategic significance is heightened by geography: Venezuela lies just seven miles away from the twin-island nation at the closest point. The US has increased military pressure on the government of Nicolás Maduro, including a warship docking in Trinidad's capital, Port of Spain, last October.
Persad-Bissessar has publicly praised US-led strikes on alleged drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean, operations which have reportedly resulted in dozens of fatalities, including several Trinidadian citizens. These strikes are now under congressional review in the US over questions of their legality.
Fears of Being Drawn into a Proxy Conflict
Opposition voices and regional analysts fear this agreement effectively draws Trinidad and Tobago into the Trump administration's pressure campaign against Venezuela. The deployment of advanced radar and the granting of airport access are seen by many as steps beyond simple logistical cooperation.
The core concern is that the nation, with its two main international airports at Piarco and ANR Robinson, could become a forward operating point for US military activities aimed at Caracas, despite government assurances to the contrary. This move places the small Caribbean state at the heart of a major international diplomatic and military standoff.
