Diplomatic Tensions Rise as Trinidad PM Criticizes U.S. Leaders

Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has accused leaders of Antigua and Barbuda, and Dominica of badmouthing the United States, leading to visa restrictions for their citizens. Speaking from Port-of-Spain on December 20, 2025, she warned her 1.5 million residents to be cautious, referencing over 250,000 Trinidadians living in the U.S. and over 300,000 holding U.S. visas.

Persad-Bissessar stated, 'Careful you don’t end up like Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, who bad-mouthed the U.S. and guess what happened? All their visas are restricted now.' Her comments prompted a swift response from Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who challenged her to back her claims with facts.

The tensions arise alongside a U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean, which has been criticized by some Caribbean leaders. The U.S. has recently imposed visa restrictions citing concerns over Citizenship by Investment programs in Antigua and Dominica, which allow foreign nationals to gain citizenship through economic investments.

Both countries have expressed concern over the restrictions, and CARICOM has requested clarity from U.S. officials. In contrast, Trinidad has agreed to allow U.S. military access to its airports and install a radar system in Tobago, with Persad-Bissessar reaffirming her commitment to the U.S. partnership.

The backdrop of this situation includes ongoing U.S. military operations targeting drug traffickers in the region, which have reportedly resulted in over 100 deaths, according to Washington. The developments highlight the rift within CARICOM regarding U.S. relations and military presence in the region.