The government of Venezuela has sharply criticized Trinidad and Tobago over an oil spill that Caracas says is threatening marine ecosystems, fishing activities, and coastal communities in Venezuelan waters.
Venezuelan officials said satellite images indicate that the spill originated from Trinidad and Tobago and has drifted into Venezuelan territory. Authorities described the incident as larger than a previous spill reported in May and warned of serious environmental consequences.
Venezuela’s Foreign Ministry has called on Trinidad and Tobago to provide information about the spill, take steps to prevent similar incidents, and address the environmental damage. It also warned that it could seek action through international bodies to determine responsibility and obtain compensation.
In response, Trinidad and Tobago said it had deployed its Air Guard, Coast Guard, and drones to investigate the reported spill. Officials also requested coordinates and additional information from Venezuela to help verify the extent and location of the contamination.
The dispute has added strain to relations between the two neighboring countries, which already face political tensions on several issues.
Environmental experts warn that significant oil spills can damage fisheries, mangroves, wetlands, and other sensitive coastal ecosystems, potentially affecting the livelihoods of communities that depend on marine resources.
Investigations are continuing as both governments assess the scale of the spill and its potential environmental impact across the region.