THE HAGUE – The Dutch government maintains that authorities in Curaçao and the other Caribbean parts of the Kingdom were “carefully” and consistently informed about the regional security situation following the U.S. military operation in Venezuela earlier this year.
In a letter to the Dutch Parliament, Minister of Foreign Affairs Tom Berendsen responded to criticism from the islands, where concerns had been raised about a lack of timely information in the immediate aftermath of the intervention.
The operation, which took place on January 3, 2026, involved U.S. forces entering Venezuela and capturing President Nicolás Maduro, an event that triggered significant geopolitical tensions across the region.
According to Berendsen, communication with the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom had already been intensified in the months leading up to the escalation. He stated that both he and his predecessor had regularly updated local authorities on developments.
“There is ongoing consultation at various levels with partners within the Kingdom,” the minister wrote. “In response to rising tensions in the region since last summer, contact with the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom has been intensified.”
The minister also pointed to continuous coordination through the Special Envoy for Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. Through this channel, local governments—including those of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba—were kept informed of relevant developments.
In addition, the Ministry of Defense has maintained close contact with regional authorities through the Commander of Naval Forces in the Caribbean, monitoring the military and security situation. The Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations also plays a role through Dutch representations and the Kingdom’s local administrative structures.
Despite these assurances, the minister acknowledged that the situation has caused concern on the islands.
He described those concerns as “understandable,” emphasizing that the Dutch government considers it essential that Caribbean authorities are informed in a timely and appropriate manner, while also respecting the confidentiality of sensitive information.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions within the Kingdom about communication and coordination during times of geopolitical crisis, particularly as Curaçao and neighboring islands remain strategically located near Venezuela and directly exposed to developments in the region.