Trinidad and Tobago fishermen are worried for their lives and jobs due to rising tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, especially after increased military actions targeting drug trafficking in the Caribbean.
U.S. Military Strikes Heighten Tensions
Kenrick Modie, a fisherman from Trinidad and Tobago, expressed fears about potential U.S. military strikes against drug vessels, feeling caught in the conflict at just 11 miles from Venezuela. His concerns reflect the anxiety of local fishermen over their safety at sea.
In recent weeks, the U.S. has conducted multiple military strikes against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean. President Trump has declared an armed conflict against drug cartels, intensifying fears in the fishing community, where livelihoods depend on safe access to the ocean.
Main Concerns for Fishermen and Government Response
Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has stated her support for U.S. military action against drug cartels while offering U.S. access for operations against Venezuela. This stance has been criticized by Venezuela’s President Maduro, who has urged for mutual respect between nations.
Amid these geopolitical tensions, local fishermen are already facing threats from pirates and are now struggling as they avoid deep waters due to safety worries, which is affecting their daily catches and livelihood.
Calls for Peace Amid Regional Uncertainty
The fishing communities, especially in Cedros and Icacos, are increasingly anxious, stating that they fear becoming collateral damage. Fishermen like Shyam Hajarie hope for a peaceful resolution between the U.S. and Venezuela, concerned about escalating military involvement.
Regional leaders, including Barbados’ Prime Minister, have emphasized the need for dialogue to ensure peace, reflecting a collective desire for stability amid rising military presence in the Caribbean.
