Trinidad and Tobago Allows US Military Use to National Airfields Amid Growing Strains with Venezuela
The government of Trinidad and Tobago has stated it will allow the United States military to utilize its airports in coming weeks. This development comes as heightening strained relations between the US and its neighbor Venezuela.
Radar Installation Raises Questions
This announcement follows the recent installation of a military-grade radar system at an airport in Tobago. Caribbean officials maintain the radar's sole use is for fighting local criminal activity, asserting it is not a springboard for offensive actions against any nation.
Government opponents argue, however, that the partnership might entangle Trinidad and Tobago into former President Donald Trump's ongoing pressure campaign against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro.
Scope of Agreement and Government Explanation
In a ministry statement, US activities at the airports would be focused on logistics, enabling resupply efforts and regular staff changes. The government provided no further details on the matter.
The nation's leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar has in the past praised US military strikes targeting suspected drug ships in regional waters, actions that have reportedly led to multiple fatalities, among them several Trinidadian citizens.
Earlier Statements and Subsequent Revelations
Initially, Persad-Bissessar claimed a US C-17 aircraft arriving in Tobago was carrying marines to assist with a local road construction project. However, following photographic evidence of the radar installation, she acknowledged that at least 100 marines were stationed in the country, accompanied by the high-performance radar.
The radar, thought to be a long-range AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR, is described as air surveillance, air defense, and counter-fire operations.
Close Neighbors
The twin-island nation is situated a mere seven miles from Venezuela at their closest point. The country has main airports: Piarco International in Trinidad and ANR Robinson International in Tobago.
The airport access agreement comes after a prior event in October, when a US warship was stationed in Trinidad's capital, signaling the Trump administration's ramped-up military pressure against Venezuela.
In related developments, US lawmakers have expressed doubts about the lawfulness of the recent maritime strikes and have announced a review process.
