The Caribbean Under Pressure: Europe's Strategic Options (iss.europa.eu)

• US forced Maduro's removal; new Venezuelan government cooperates on oil deals.
• Cuba faces energy collapse; US prioritizes regime compliance over democracy.
• Criminal groups shift routes southward, increasing European security risks.

"The Caribbean is experiencing increased geopolitical volatility due to the Trump administration's assertive reassertion of US dominance, including the removal of Maduro in Venezuela and pressure on Cuba. Organized crime and extra-regional actors are adapting. The EU has stakes through territories, trade, and shared security threats like drug trafficking. The US hardline militarized approach may create demand for EU non-military security assistance. The EU can leverage its expertise in citizen security and multilateral engagement to affect outcomes."