Southern Trinidad villages face risks from U.S.–Venezuela tensionsCEFR A2
31 Oct 2025
Adapted from Kwasi Cudjoe, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Jaime Creixems, Unsplash
At the southern tip of Trinidad, the villages of Icacos and Cedros have long relied on the sea for fishing and small trade. Recently, U.S. naval and air deployments near Venezuelan waters and warnings from the Venezuelan government have made the waters risky for ordinary coastal people.
Fishermen say they avoid fishing farther offshore for fear of being caught in military or enforcement actions. Trinidad and Tobago also has many Venezuelan migrants arriving by sea. Smuggling and increased patrols can raise the risk of mistakes at sea. The government wants stronger border control but also seeks to avoid being drawn into a military standoff. Officials propose better communication and practical safety measures for coastal communities.
Difficult words
- fishermen — People who catch fish for a living.fishers
- safety — Being safe from danger or harm.
- migrants — People who move to a new place to live.
- military — Related to armed forces or soldiers.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How does the military presence affect local fishermen?
- What problems might arise from sharing waters with smugglers?
- Why do you think migrants move to new places?
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