The US warship USS Gravely arrived in Trinidad and Tobago as part of joint military exercises. The ship will stay in Port-of-Spain until October 30. During this time, US Marines and the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force will train together on tactics and medical skills.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar welcomed the visit. She stressed the importance of US help in fighting drug trafficking and crime, which heavily impact her country. The government also expects support in infrastructure and humanitarian efforts.

However, leaders in the region voiced concerns about growing military presence. Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley warned that the Caribbean faces risks from increased US military activities. She called for peaceful dialogue and reminded that the region should remain a “zone of peace.”

The tensions come amid broader US efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Caribbean, as well as fears among regional leaders about possible military aggression.