December 16th, 2025 - Caribbean Nation Caught in the Crossfire as U.S. Escalates Pressure on Maduro

In late November, the residents of Crown Point in Tobago were startled by the sound of powerful U.S. military jets overhead, signaling a significant military presence. The unusual activity, occurring mostly during the night, culminated in the discovery of a massive rotating device pointed skyward. Initially, some feared it could be a bomb or radiation-emitting equipment, but it was later revealed to be the G/ATOR, a state-of-the-art mobile radar system used by the U.S. Marines. Worth tens of millions of dollars, the radar is designed for long-range surveillance and is seen as a powerful tool in military operations.

The presence of the radar has sparked a heated debate in Trinidad and Tobago, especially given the country’s proximity to Venezuela, with which tensions have been rising due to the U.S.'s escalating military activities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has offered conflicting explanations about the purpose of the radar and the presence of U.S. military personnel, initially suggesting the radar was part of a drug trafficking surveillance operation. However, as more details emerged, she later acknowledged its role in monitoring Venezuela's oil activities and countering smuggling efforts.

The radar’s capabilities, however, have led critics to question the true purpose of its deployment. The G/ATOR system, purchased by the U.S. from Northrop Grumman, is a military asset designed to detect incoming airborne threats, such as missiles and aircraft, rather than maritime targets. This has raised doubts about the claim that it is being used to combat drug trafficking, as the vast majority of illicit drugs in the region are transported by sea, not air.

The debate has intensified as the U.S. increases its military presence in the Caribbean. The U.S. Southern Command confirmed that the radar, stationed in Tobago with the permission of the Trinidadian government, supports efforts to disrupt illicit drug trafficking and enhance homeland security. Yet, experts argue that the radar's primary function appears to be geared towards military operations, potentially aimed at countering threats from Venezuela rather than drug cartels.

Trinidad and Tobago’s alignment with U.S. interests has raised concerns about the country’s growing involvement in the U.S.'s geopolitical strategies in the region. Critics argue that by cooperating with Washington, the government may inadvertently align itself with policies that could exacerbate tensions with Venezuela, a country with which it shares economic interests, particularly in the oil and gas sectors. Some even suggest that the government’s actions could be seen as a step toward supporting regime change in Venezuela.

While the U.S. military presence has brought political leverage for Trinidad, it remains unclear what tangible benefits the country will receive in return. The radar installation, while strengthening military ties, also positions Trinidad as a key player in U.S. efforts in the region. Experts, such as Brian Fonseca from Florida International University, suggest that this cooperation offers Trinidad political goodwill that could prove valuable in future dealings with Washington, particularly concerning the country’s longstanding interest in accessing offshore Venezuelan oil reserves.

The radar controversy has become a focal point for local and international discussions about Trinidad and Tobago’s role in the U.S.'s strategic interests in the Caribbean and Latin America, with implications for both domestic and foreign policy. The government faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance and explain the benefits of this partnership, particularly as it navigates its relationships with both Venezuela and the United States.

Word of the Day (Merriam-Webster) - Conversant (adj, kun-VER-sant) - Conversant, usually used in the phrase "conversant with," describes someone who has knowledge of or experience with something.

Example: The ideal candidate for the sommelier position will have expert knowledge of the various wines served in the restaurant and be conversant with the rich world of viniculture.

Image credit: Unsplash