By Spy Uganda
A broad coalition of civil society organisations across Trinidad and Tobago has issued a powerful call for peace and respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty, warning against escalating foreign military activity in the Caribbean that could destabilize the region.
The groups, which include the Movement for Social Justice, the Emancipation Support Committee, All Mansions of Rastafari, and several others, announced Vigil for Peace II, set for December 7th at Woodford Square. The event is expected to draw hundreds of youth and community advocates unified in urging that “war in the region is not in our name.”
Their declaration follows growing concern over increased U.S. military deployments near Venezuela, including the arrival of the USS Gerald Ford strike group, repeated appearances of U.S. Marines in Trinidad, and reports of radar installations and equipment landings in Tobago.
Support For Venezuela’s Right to Self-Determination
In their statement, the organisers strongly criticised recent U.S. moves to label the Venezuelan government as a “Foreign Terrorist Organisation,” a designation they believe is being used to justify potential military aggression. They insist that Venezuela, like any sovereign nation, has the right to chart its own political and economic path free from external intimidation.
“Efforts to isolate or attack Venezuela do not represent the will of Caribbean people,” the organisers emphasized. “This region has always stood for diplomacy, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence. No Caribbean nation should be used as a launchpad for destabilizing a neighbour.”
Growing Concern Over Trinidad & Tobago’s Role
The statement also questions the transparency of the Trinidad and Tobago government regarding its engagement with U.S. military agencies, noting:
- the secretive nature of the Joint Chiefs of Staff visit,
- the installation of radars in Tobago,
- and repeated U.S. military presence within local waters and airports.
According to the coalition, such developments risk making Trinidad and Tobago a strategic target should open conflict erupt — a situation they argue the public was not properly consulted about.
For decades, the Caribbean has defended the principle that it must remain a Zone of Peace. Civil groups argue that any military action against Venezuela would not only destabilize the country but also threaten regional economies, fisherfolk, airlines, and everyday citizens.
“Venezuela is our neighbour, our trading partner, and a fellow Caribbean family,” the statement reads. “An attack on Venezuela is an attack on regional peace.”
Vigil For Peace Ii: A Youth-led Stand
The upcoming vigil will spotlight youth voices, amplifying their demand that Caribbean soil never be used to wage war against a friendly sovereign nation. Organizers have urged citizens across the islands to participate, stressing that peace and regional unity must remain the Caribbean’s guiding values.
See The Press Statement Below
2025 November 28 - media release - Vigil for Peace II
