Amid rising tensions over U.S. military activities in the Caribbean, several European nations have reportedly reduced intelligence sharing with Washington. Concerns are mounting that the information could be used in potential strikes against Venezuela.
France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom have purportedly lowered the level of information exchange related to the Caribbean region. This decision stems from fears that the intelligence might be exploited in operations deemed unlawful within their territories in the area.
These European countries maintain control over islands and territories close to Venezuela, including the Dutch ABC islands, French Guiana, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and British territories in the Caribbean. The move reflects growing unease over Washington’s increased military presence, which Caracas views as a strategy for regime change.
The United States accuses Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro of heading a “narcoterrorist cartel,” allegations vehemently denied by Venezuela. U.S. raids since last September have allegedly resulted in the deaths of at least 83 individuals in international waters, without conclusive evidence confirming their involvement in drug trafficking.
European officials have indicated that the transfer of operational intelligence to Washington is currently suspended to prevent its use as a basis for military action. In the UK, Attorney General Richard Hermer reportedly cautioned the government about the potential for the information to be used in what he termed “assassination operations” sanctioned by the U.S. administration.
Earlier this month, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed reports that the UK had halted such information sharing as “fake news.” However, former intelligence officials suggest that the move is not a radical shift but a legal precaution to avoid complicity in operations that may be legal in the U.S. but unlawful in Europe. They emphasize that broader transatlantic intelligence cooperation remains in place. The situation continues to evolve, and DZWatch will provide updates as they become available.
