WILLEMSTAD - The decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to authorize the CIA to conduct operations in Venezuela has sparked unease in Curaçao, which lies only a short distance from the Venezuelan coast. Residents are expressing concern about possible risks if tensions continue to escalate, according to Caribisch Netwerk.
The new U.S. operations are reportedly aimed at combating drug cartels, but observers suggest there may be broader geopolitical motives behind them. On social media, local fishermen have voiced fears about whether it is still safe to go out to sea.
Commander Walter Hansen, head of the Royal Netherlands Navy in the Caribbean and director of the Coast Guard, sought to reassure the public, stating there is no cause for panic.
“Defense is responsible for the safety of the entire Kingdom, including the Caribbean territories,” Hansen said. “Within the twelve-mile zone, we guarantee security. My advice to fishermen is to stay within our territorial waters.”
Dutch Navy Ship’s Arrival Not Linked to Venezuela
On Monday, October 20, the Dutch naval supply ship Zr.Ms. Den Helder entered Willemstad in a ceremonial visit. According to Hansen, its arrival was not related to current political tensions.
“The ship’s voyage was planned a year ago for technical trials in warm water and high humidity. It has nothing to do with the situation in Venezuela,” he explained.
Hansen emphasized that while Defense remains alert and observant, there is no immediate threat. “We are monitoring developments closely, in communication with the governments of Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire, and will act where necessary. People can sleep peacefully,” he said.
Uncertainty Over Possible Consequences
Journalist and NOS correspondent Dick Drayer, who has long reported on geopolitical developments in the region, called the situation “worrying” but not immediately dangerous for the islands.
“What Trump is doing is technically illegal, but by labeling the operations as counterterrorism, he makes them legally feasible,” Drayer explained. “He’s carrying out these actions outside the existing international coalition that includes the Netherlands, France, and the U.K., which makes it risky.”
Drayer warned that the real danger lies in how Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro perceives the U.S. operations.
“If Maduro believes the islands are cooperating with American forces, he could view them as part of the conflict. In that case, the islands would become vulnerable,” he said.
According to Drayer, Maduro has approached the United Nations to condemn the U.S. actions but has not yet responded militarily. The U.S. naval forces are reportedly operating out of Puerto Rico, not from the ABC Islands. “That suggests the Americans are trying to act with caution,” he added.
Economic Risks Remain High
Drayer also highlighted the islands’ economic dependence on Venezuela, noting that any disruption could have immediate effects.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw what happened when Venezuela temporarily halted trade. Prices for fruits and vegetables skyrocketed by hundreds of percent. If Maduro imposes new economic measures, the islands will feel the impact directly,” he warned.
While Drayer considers a military attack highly unlikely, he cautioned that Maduro could use economic pressure or small provocations to gain attention.
Both Hansen and Drayer advised fishermen to remain vigilant. “The sea between the islands and Venezuela is small, with little international water,” Drayer noted. “Drug traffickers often use fishing boats, making it hard to distinguish legitimate vessels from smugglers. Extra caution is wise.”
Hansen confirmed that Defense is on standby: “We are vigilant and continuously monitoring the situation. If anything arises, we will act in coordination with the respective governments.”
Calm and Preparedness
Drayer concluded that there is no reason for panic among residents. “I see no immediate threat to the islands. Staying alert is good, but calm and silence are better right now. Those going to sea should be careful, but otherwise, it’s best to wait and see how this develops.”
Commander Hansen echoed that sentiment. “I understand people are concerned, but there is no acute danger at the moment. Defense is alert and prepared. That should be enough reassurance,” he said.
Maduro’s Response
On Wednesday, October 22, President Nicolás Maduro claimed during a televised address that Venezuela possesses 5,000 Russian Igla-S missiles to defend against U.S. forces in the Caribbean. He said the short-range missiles have been deployed in strategic air defense positions “to safeguard peace.”
His statement came shortly after Trump’s authorization of CIA operations in Venezuela, adding a new layer of tension to an already fragile regional situation.
