The United States is launching a five-day military exercise in Trinidad and Tobago, indicating a stronger US security presence in the Caribbean region. The drills come at a time of rising tensions with Venezuela, where Washington has increased its naval deployments.
US Begins Military Exercise in Trinidad and Tobago Amid Rising Tensions with Venezuela
Growing US Military Deployment Near Venezuela
The exercise follows the arrival of the USS Gravely, a guided-missile destroyer, in Port of Spain. The USS Gerald R. Ford, a major aircraft carrier, is also moving closer to the area.
Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro criticised the US for trying to trigger a long-term conflict in the region. In response, Venezuela suspended its energy cooperation with Trinidad and Tobago.
Trinidad and Tobago Rejects Intervention Claims
Authorities in Trinidad and Tobago stated that the military drills must not be seen as preparation for an intervention in Venezuela.
- The Attorney General said the goal is to strengthen security cooperation.
- Foreign Minister Sean Sobers denied any signs of an upcoming regional war and emphasised peaceful collaboration.
Role of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU)
The exercise will be conducted by the US Marine Corps’ 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, which is already active in the Caribbean. Their mission includes:
- Counter-narcotics operations
- Training against organised crime and drug trafficking
- Improving domestic security capabilities of partner nations
This unit is central to US efforts to control illegal trafficking routes in the Caribbean Sea.
Strategic Importance for Regional Security
According to the Trinidad and Tobago government, the drills will:
- Strengthen bilateral military cooperation
- Enhance operational readiness of local forces
- Support security in one of the most sensitive maritime zones in the Americas
The timing shows a strong geopolitical message as the US steps up pressure on Caracas.
Exam-Oriented Notes
- US to begin five-day military exercise in Trinidad and Tobago.
- Region is close to Venezuela’s coast.
- Key US naval presence: USS Gravely (guided-missile destroyer) and USS Gerald R. Ford (aircraft carrier).
- Venezuela halted energy cooperation with Trinidad after US naval arrival.
- Drills led by 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU).
- Focus: counter-narcotics, organised crime, and regional security cooperation.
Question & Answer
Q1. Which country is hosting the new five-day US military exercise?
(a) Guyana
(b) Barbados
(c) Trinidad and Tobago
(d) Panama
Answer: Trinidad and Tobago
Q2. Which US naval ship recently arrived in Port of Spain?
(a) USS Theodore Roosevelt
(b) USS Gravely
(c) USS Zumwalt
(d) USS Nimitz
Answer: USS Gravely
Q3. Which major US aircraft carrier is moving closer to the Caribbean region?
(a) USS Harry S. Truman
(b) USS Ronald Reagan
(c) USS Gerald R. Ford
(d) USS Abraham Lincoln
Answer: USS Gerald R. Ford
Q4. The US military exercise will be led by which unit?
(a) 5th Fleet
(b) 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit
(c) 82nd Airborne Division
(d) Special Operations Command North
Answer: 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit
Q5. Venezuela suspended energy cooperation with Trinidad and Tobago after the arrival of:
(a) US Air Force bombers
(b) US sanctions
(c) USS Gravely
(d) NATO troops
Answer: USS Gravely
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