Trinidad and Tobago Mobilizes Military Amid Escalating U.S.-Venezuela Tensions

Friday, 31 October 2025 10:12 PM EDT

Trinidad and Tobago has placed its military on “STATE ONE ALERT LEVEL,” recalling all personnel to bases as tensions flare between the United States and Venezuela. The move follows a deadly U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, with Trinidadian forces restricting leave until further notice.

The island nation, located near Venezuela’s coast, is reacting to recent U.S. airstrikes targeting 15 alleged drug-trafficking vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific, which killed 62 people. The alert triggered panic in Port of Spain, where residents rushed to purchase food and fuel. Officials emphasized that the government is in contact with the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain but urged calm.

Washington has deployed eight Navy ships, F-35 warplanes to Puerto Rico, and an aircraft carrier strike group to the region under the guise of combating drug trafficking. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused the U.S. of using the issue as a pretext for regime change and oil seizure. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump denied considering strikes against Venezuela, stating, “No,” when asked about such reports. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also dismissed claims of impending military action.