A U.S. guided missile destroyer has arrived in Trinidad and Tobago amid rising tensions surrounding Venezuela. The USS Gravely docked in Port-of-Spain on Sunday, October 26, 2025, to initiate joint military training exercises with the Caribbean nation. This move is part of the Trump administration’s escalating military pressure on Venezuela and its leader, Nicolás Maduro.
Military Exercises in the Caribbean
The USS Gravely will remain in Trinidad and Tobago until Thursday. The exercises aim to strengthen security and address shared threats, according to U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz. These endeavors include training, humanitarian missions, and collaborative security efforts aimed at combating transnational crime.
Venezuela’s Reaction
Venezuela’s government has labeled the military exercises in neighboring waters as “dangerous” and a “serious threat” to the Caribbean region. The Foreign Ministry described the joint exercises as a “hostile provocation” towards Venezuela.
Support from Trinidad and Tobago
Despite Venezuela’s concerns, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, has expressed support for the U.S. military presence. She backs the Trump administration’s efforts to conduct strikes on suspected drug transport vessels in the Caribbean, targeting the issue of drug smuggling.
Increased U.S. Military Presence
The arrival of the USS Gravely coincides with the approaching USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, which is also moving closer to Venezuela as part of the military strategy to tackle drug cartels. The Trump administration has intensified its focus on Venezuela, with President Trump accusing Maduro of leading a drug cartel.
Covert Operations and Drug Smuggling
Earlier this month, President Trump authorized the CIA to engage in covert operations within Venezuela. This decision was linked to security concerns, noting that prisoners had been released into the U.S. from Venezuela and that drugs were being smuggled into the U.S. via sea routes.
- Event: USS Gravely arrival for military exercises
- Location: Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
- Duration: October 26 – October 30, 2025
- U.S. Official: Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz
- Venezuelan Leader: Nicolás Maduro
