🔗 Share this article The Caribbean Nation Allows US Military Access to Its Airports Amid Rising Tensions with Venezuela Officials in Trinidad and Tobago has confirmed it will allow the United States military to operate from its airports shortly. This move occurs amid heightening geopolitical friction between the US and nearby Venezuela. New Defense System Sparks Debate This announcement follows the recent installation of a sophisticated radar system at an airport in Tobago. Caribbean authorities have insisted the radar's primary purpose is for curtailing illegal operations, asserting it is not a launchpad for military strikes against any nation. Critics and opposition figures argue, however, that the partnership could draw Trinidad and Tobago into ex-President Donald Trump's broader efforts against Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Nature of Access and Government Explanation According to a ministry statement, US activities at the airports would be for logistical support, enabling supply replenishment and standard troop rotations. Officials provided no further details beyond this. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has in the past supported US operations targeting suspected drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific, strikes that have allegedly led to multiple fatalities, among them several Trinidadian citizens. Earlier Statements and Subsequent Revelations At first, Persad-Bissessar stated a US C-17 aircraft that landed in Tobago was carrying marines to assist with a civilian road construction project. Yet, following photographic evidence of the radar installation, she admitted that at least 100 marines were stationed in the country, accompanied by the powerful radar. This system, identified as a long-range AN/TPS-80 G/ATOR, is used for air surveillance, defense, and artillery detection capabilities. Close Neighbors The twin-island nation lies 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 follows a previous incident in October, when a US naval vessel was stationed in Trinidad's capital, signaling the Trump administration's growing military posture against Venezuela. In related developments, American legislators have expressed doubts about the legality of the recent maritime strikes and have announced a congressional review.