Venezuela claims CIA plot foiled, slams US warship deployment
What's the story
Venezuela has accused the United States of intensifying its military presence in the Caribbean region, claiming that Washington is trying to destabilize President Nicolas Maduro's government. The accusations came after a US warship, USS Gravely, a guided missile destroyer, docked in Trinidad and Tobago. Venezuelan authorities claim to have dismantled a CIA-financed plot to attack this ship and blame Caracas for it.
Diplomatic tensions
Maduro suspends gas deal with Trinidad and Tobago
The arrival of USS Gravely has been termed a "provocation" by Caracas, which accused the US "aimed at provoking a war in the Caribbean." In response, President Maduro suspended a gas agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, accusing Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of turning her country into an "aircraft carrier of the American empire against Venezuela."
Foiled plot
CIA-backed attack plot claims
Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello claimed that four people were arrested in connection with the alleged CIA-backed attack on USS Gravely, although he did not provide any details. The US has not confirmed these allegations. However, President Donald Trump has authorized CIA operations in Venezuela and hinted at possible ground strikes as part of his military campaign against drug traffickers in the Caribbean.
Escalating tensions
US bombers fly over Caribbean near Venezuela
Tensions escalated further as two US B-1B bombers flew over the Caribbean near Venezuela. This was the third such show of force in recent weeks. Earlier missions included a B-1B sortie last week and a B-52 flight earlier this month, indicating Washington's willingness to increase pressure on Maduro's government.
Diplomatic fallout
Venezuela threatens to suspend gas deals with Trinidad
Venezuela's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez called for the suspension of gas deals with Trinidad to increase costs for the US and its ally. However, PM Persad-Bissessar rejected what she termed Venezuelan "blackmail," reiterating her country's commitment to security and energy cooperation. Washington recently allowed Trinidad and Tobago to exploit the Dragon gas field in Venezuelan waters despite a US oil embargo, further straining relations between the two nations.