THE HAGUE – The Dutch government has assured Parliament that there is currently no direct security threat to Aruba, Curaçao or Bonaire following recent events in Venezuela. Foreign Affairs Minister David van Weel said ongoing intelligence monitoring indicates that tensions in the region have not translated into immediate risks for the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
During a committee debate on January 8, lawmakers repeatedly pressed the minister on contingency planning for scenarios such as disrupted airspace, maritime incidents, refugee flows and supply chain interruptions. Van Weel confirmed that multiple scenarios have been prepared in coordination with the Ministry of Defense and local authorities.
According to the minister, food supplies, fuel availability and medical resources on the islands are sufficient at this time. He stressed that preparedness extends beyond military considerations and includes civil protection, humanitarian assistance and logistical support should the situation deteriorate.