THE HAGUE – The Dutch House of Representatives has submitted an unusually large number of motions urging the government to take firmer action as tensions between the United States and Venezuela continue to rise, threatening the security and stability of Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire. The motions were tabled during Tuesday’s two-minute debate on “Increasing Tensions in the Caribbean and the Consequences for the Kingdom.”
Lawmakers from nearly every major party expressed frustration over the lack of clarity surrounding U.S. military actions against alleged Venezuelan drug-smuggling boats—actions that have already resulted in at least 87 deaths. Several parties, including GroenLinks-PvdA, D66 and DENK, argued that the attacks may violate international law and urged the cabinet to condemn the operations.
GroenLinks-PvdA MP Kati Piri submitted a motion calling on the Dutch government to officially denounce the U.S. strikes as “violations of international law.” The motion received broad support but was ultimately rejected by Foreign Affairs Minister David van Weel, who insisted that the United States must first complete its own internal review and that the Netherlands lacks sufficient information to make a definitive judgment.
Another Piri motion—asking the government to refuse any support for potential U.S. military action against Venezuela without a proper legal mandate—received a positive assessment (“oordeel Kamer”) and will proceed to a vote.
Parties also raised urgent concerns about the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom, where island governments warn of potential disruptions to food imports, refugee flows, and tourism if the situation worsens. Multiple motions called for:
- Accelerated food-security plans, including increased local production.
- Better sharing of confidential security information with the parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten.
- Clear public communication campaigns to prepare residents for possible emergencies.
- Assessment of strategic reserves, including fuel, medicine and essential supplies.
D66 MP Mpanzu Bamenga also introduced a widely supported motion reaffirming that the Caribbean countries can always count on Dutch military protection under the Charter for the Kingdom. This motion likewise received a positive assessment.
Despite repeated calls for transparency, many MPs criticized the cabinet for failing to communicate proactively with both the islands and the House of Representatives. Minister Van Weel acknowledged those concerns, stating: “We could have communicated more proactively.”
All motions will be put to a vote during next week’s parliamentary session.