DEN HAAG - Concerns are widespread in the Dutch House of Representatives that escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela could have far-reaching consequences for Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire.
That became clear during Wednesday evening’s debate of the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee with Minister of Foreign Affairs David van Weel and Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans. The presence of ten of the fifteen parliamentary parties underscored how seriously lawmakers view the potential impact of a looming conflict so close to the “front door” of the islands. Whether the same sense of urgency exists within the cabinet itself was a recurring question throughout the debate.
The primary concern raised by committee members focused on the safety of the islands. Minister Van Weel stressed that there is “no acute threat at this moment,” but acknowledged that the Dutch government has little insight into the true intentions of the United States, as Washington is not sharing detailed information. Beyond security risks, MPs voiced worries about food security should maritime supply lines be disrupted, a possible downturn in tourism, and the potential influx of Venezuelan refugees.
Van Weel said that multiple “what if” scenarios are currently being developed. He rejected the nearly unanimous criticism that the cabinet is acting too passively and failing to share information proactively with the islands. According to the minister, there is frequent consultation with Curaçao Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas, Aruba Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes’ predecessor Mike Eman, and Bonaire’s Island Governor John Soliano. “They can call me day and night,” Van Weel said. He also stated that there are currently no indications that a large refugee flow from Venezuela should be expected.
Minister Brekelmans echoed the message that there is no immediate threat to the islands. He added that military movements by both the United States and Venezuela are being closely monitored. The likelihood that the islands would become directly involved in a military conflict was described by the defence minister as highly unlikely.
Together with the island governments, contingency plans are being developed for various scenarios, including situations in which supply chains could be disrupted. Defence is exercising caution when it comes to increasing military capacity on the islands, as such a move could be misinterpreted by Venezuela. However, Brekelmans emphasized that the armed forces are ready to provide support within 48 hours if necessary, for example in the event of logistical disruptions that could lead to shortages. In that context, a Dutch naval supply vessel has already been deployed to Curaçao.
At the conclusion of the debate, Van Weel acknowledged that the cabinet could communicate more proactively, particularly toward the local population on the islands. He stressed that this should be done in close coordination with the island governments. The committee debate will be followed by a so-called two-minute debate, during which parliamentary parties will have the opportunity to submit motions.