Rowley Rejects Claims of U.S. Military Presence for Venezuela Conflict

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago has denied reports of an agreement permitting U.S. troop deployment in Trinidad in connection with potential conflicts in Venezuela. He deemed the claims unfounded and a potential threat to Trinidad and Tobago’s integrity. The controversy arose following a Newsday article on recent military agreements discussed between U.S. officials and Trinidad’s government, which were described in a misleading context.

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago recently refuted claims made in a newspaper that the government had entered into an agreement with the United States, allowing for the deployment of U.S. forces to Trinidad and Tobago in the event of a conflict in Venezuela. Dr. Rowley emphasized the seriousness of the allegation and its potential implications, insisting that it was unfounded and lacked credible investigation. He queried how the notion that Trinidad could host U.S. troops for military actions against Venezuela could be conceived, stressing the importance of maintaining Trinidad and Tobago’s sovereignty and peace in the Caribbean.

Rowley asserted, “This is a serious matter. If a country is making its territory available for another country to stage military action against that country, that is a serious matter,” highlighting the possible negative perceptions this could generate in Venezuela. The controversy arose from a report suggesting that Trinidad’s National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds had signed documents allowing U.S. military presence in relation to Venezuelan conflicts during talks with U.S. officials, including discussions on joint cooperation in security, energy, and human rights.

The statements from Prime Minister Rowley emerged amid ongoing regional discussions regarding security cooperation and military agreements between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States. The U.S. Embassy had announced a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) that would enhance military collaboration; however, Rowley firmly rejected any suggestion that this agreement would facilitate U.S. military action in Venezuela. The region’s geopolitical dynamics, particularly concerning neighboring Venezuela, remain a sensitive topic in Caribbean politics, affecting Trinidad and Tobago’s diplomatic approaches and security strategies.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley firmly rejected claims that Trinidad and Tobago had permitted the U.S. to deploy troops for potential action in Venezuela, emphasizing the country’s commitment to peace and sovereignty. He expressed concern over irresponsible reporting that could jeopardize Trinidad and Tobago’s international relations, particularly with Venezuela. The government remains focused on maintaining collaborative and peaceful ties with regional and international partners to address security and humanitarian issues without compromising national integrity.

Original Source: jamaica-gleaner.com