World News / Politics / International Affairs
Venezuela’s second-in-command, Diosdado Cabello, has issued a warning to Trinidad and Tobago regarding the potential use of its territory by the United States for military operations against Caracas.
Cabello’s Warning
During a public rally, Cabello stated:
“Venezuela doesn’t fight with anyone, but they leave us no choice. If Trinidad lends its territory for a strike against Venezuela, we have to answer and don’t have a choice to avoid being attacked.”
Cabello also claimed that the country is already being used by foreign forces, a move he said the Venezuelan population opposes, emphasizing that both nations have historically “lived in peace.”
Trinidad and Tobago’s Response
The government of Trinidad and Tobago has openly supported Washington’s campaign against the Maduro regime. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar defended her country’s military cooperation with the U.S.:
“I won’t declare war on Venezuela, but my duty is to protect the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and right now this is the best defense mechanism we can have.”
The United States has reportedly deployed soldiers and installed a radar system on the islands. Additionally, U.S. military planes have access to local airports, though Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that this access is limited to logistical purposes, including supply replenishment and routine personnel rotations.
Key Locations
Trinidad and Tobago lies just seven miles from Venezuela at its closest point. The islands host:
-
Piarco International Airport (Trinidad)
-
ANR Robinson International Airport (Tobago)
These airports are reportedly available for limited U.S. military operations.
Venezuela Suspends Energy Agreements
In response, Venezuelan Vice President and Hydrocarbons Minister Delcy RodrÃguez announced the suspension of all contracts, agreements, and negotiations to supply natural gas to Trinidad and Tobago. She accused the Trinidadian government of aligning with the U.S. to “harass” Venezuela and labeled the airport access as part of a hostile agenda.
RodrÃguez also criticized Trinidad and Tobago for allegedly facilitating the recent U.S. seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker, calling it “an act of piracy.”
Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar Pushes Back
The Trinidadian Prime Minister rejected Venezuela’s claims, calling them false propaganda. She told the Associated Press that the tanker seizure was executed by the U.S. military, not Trinidad and Tobago, and emphasized that her country maintains peaceful relations with the Venezuelan people.
“We have never depended on Venezuelan gas and have sufficient domestic reserves,” she said.
No comments:
Post a Comment