THE HAGUE – The Dutch House of Representatives held an extensive and highly charged debate on Thursday over recent developments in Venezuela and the implications for the security of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. While opinions sharply differed on how to judge the U.S. military operation that led to the arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, there was broad consensus that Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire must be protected against any fallout from regional instability.
During the committee debate, lawmakers from across the political spectrum acknowledged that Maduro’s removal has triggered relief among many Venezuelans, while simultaneously raising serious legal and geopolitical questions. Several parties argued that the U.S. operation violated international law, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent if major powers act unilaterally in sovereign states.
Despite these concerns, Foreign Affairs Minister David van Weel reiterated that Dutch intelligence assessments show no acute military threat to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. He emphasized that the government remains in continuous contact with the governors, island governments and defense authorities to monitor developments closely and respond swiftly if circumstances change.