Hey fam, did you catch the latest buzz from across the pond? 🧐 Latin American governments are sounding the alarm as the US ramps up its military presence in the Caribbean. From high-profile visits to joint exercises, the region is on edge, warning of possible conflict if tensions aren't dialed down.
Just this week, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth touched down in the Dominican Republic, securing access to San Isidro Air Base and Las Americas International Airport for anti-drug ops. Meanwhile, Joint Chiefs Chair Dan Cane toured Trinidad and Tobago after inspecting forces in Puerto Rico—talk about a busy schedule! 🚁💼
Trini-Tobago even wrapped up joint drills with the US Marine Corps from Nov 16–21 near the Paria Gulf, just a stone's throw from Venezuela. And since September 2025, roughly 15,000 US personnel—including the USS Gerald R. Ford—have been deployed, marking the biggest US buildup in decades. 😲
But this show of force has sparked serious regional backlash:
- OAS Secretary-General Albert Ramdin urged both sides to chill and seek talks, stressing that "peace is what everyone in our hemisphere wants." 🕊️
- Cuban FM Bruno Rodríguez slammed the moves as "aggressive," warning of mass casualties and instability.
- Venezuela's AG Tarek William Saab hit back at US strikes on suspected drug vessels, citing international law breaches. 📜💔
A new CBS/YouGov poll shows 76% of Americans believe the White House hasn't justified this military push, and 70% oppose action against Venezuela. Looks like the debate is heating up not just in Latin America, but back home too!
For our South and Southeast Asian crew, this is a reminder that global power plays can ripple far and wide. Whether it's in the Caribbean or the Indo-Pacific, staying informed and advocating for dialogue over conflict is key. 🌏💬
Stay tuned as we track how these tensions unfold and what they mean for global peace and security. And drop your thoughts below—what's your take on this standoff? 👇
Reference(s):
Latin America warns of war as U.S. expands Caribbean military presence
cgtn.com
