WILLEMSTAD / THE HAGUE – The Coast Guard expects persistent security risks for the Caribbean islands in 2026 as a direct result of the crisis in Venezuela. This is stated in the Coast Guard’s 2026 Annual Plan, which has been adopted by the Kingdom Council of Ministers.
The document warns that the political, economic, and humanitarian instability in Venezuela is having a direct impact, particularly on the ABC islands.
According to the Coast Guard, Venezuela remains an unpredictable factor in the region. The strained relationship between Caracas and the Kingdom—partly because the Netherlands does not recognize the election victory claimed by President Nicolás Maduro in 2024—adds to the uncertainty. Growing instability could lead to increased migration pressure toward the islands and a rise in cross-border crime.
The Coast Guard also points to escalating tensions between the United States and Venezuela in the Caribbean region. These geopolitical developments could affect the security situation around the Leeward Antilles. The Coast Guard says it is closely monitoring these developments and is taking them into account when deploying its assets and personnel in 2026.
Annual plan
The annual plan acknowledges that the security situation in the region is under sustained pressure and is not a temporary issue. The Coast Guard therefore remains alert to potential consequences for maritime security and stability in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.
