WILLEMSTAD – Member of Parliament Ruthilda Larmonie-Cecilia (PNP) has voiced serious concerns about Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas’ response to the arrival of U.S. Navy ships near Venezuela, part of Washington’s stated campaign against drug trafficking and terrorism. According to the MP, the government’s stance could have far-reaching consequences for the people of Curaçao.

Larmonie-Cecilia argues that the information provided by Pisas has been insufficient, leaving the public confused and poorly informed. While a statement from the Council of Ministers (RvM) welcomed the presence of the U.S. ships, the MP sees a worrying lack of discussion about potential humanitarian fallout—such as a surge in Venezuelan migrants seeking refuge on Curaçao. She warned that such a scenario would place even greater pressure on the island’s healthcare, education, and job market.

The parliamentarian also expressed concern about the risks these developments pose to Curaçao’s safety and sovereignty. She accused the government of evading crucial questions on human rights and security, calling its approach a “don’t-ask-don’t-tell attitude.” According to Larmonie-Cecilia, the U.S. military presence places Curaçao in a vulnerable geopolitical position, particularly given the role of the Forward Operating Location (FOL) at Hato airport.

Meanwhile, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has described the U.S. naval movements as a threat, announcing the mobilization of millions of militia members—an escalation that could further heighten regional tensions.