EDM: US military build-up in the Caribbean

US military build-up in the Caribbean

Tabled by Richard Burgon (Labour) 33 signatures

The motion

That this House notes with alarm the recent US military build-up in the Caribbean, with warships, bombers and tens of thousands of troops deployed near the Venezuelan coast; further notes with alarm missile strikes by the US on small boats in the region and the extrajudicial killing of over 80 people including two people in a double-strike that has triggered inquiries by US Senate and Congressional Committees; is concerned by the recent moves by US President Trump against Venezuela, which has the largest proven oil reserves in the world, including his announcement of the closure of Venezuela’s airspace, his public authorisation of CIA covert operations inside Venezuela, the US seizure of Venezuelan oil tanker and his threat of land strikes; also notes the long history of US interventions in Latin America, where coups and other military interventions have caused immense suffering and lasting harm; is deeply concerned that any US military action against Venezuela could trigger a wider regional conflict and notes the concern from leaders across Latin America about the threat of US intervention in the region; notes the previous declaration by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States proclaiming the region a Zone of Peace committed to resolving disputes through dialogue, not force, upholding sovereignty, and fostering cooperation; and calls on the UK Government to oppose any US military intervention against Venezuela or in the wider region, to work to de-escalate tensions, and to promote dialogue, diplomacy and a peaceful resolution in accordance with the UN Charter.

Signatories (33)