A day or two ago, we heard a story about a revelation of things to come prophesied by a crazy man living in San Cristobal, the island made famous by the Barbadian novelist George Lamming. Although most of the island’s inhabitants descend from Africans who were enslaved and, to a lesser extent, Asians who were indentured, you find a mix of people in San Cristobal. San Cristóbal is a beautiful, paradisiacal place. San Cristobalians, who still carry EU passports, live off tourist dollars and euros.
Though poverty exists on the island, it is classified as a High-Income Country by the World Bank. Warfare, pogroms, famine, dictatorship, and legal segregation, which are common outside of the EU, are unknown to the people of San Cristobal. These things are unknown on the island, because San Cristobal, though located in the Americas, is within the bastion of the EU’s rule-based order.
A small, highly educated faction in San Cristobal, who rub shoulders with Caricom leaders, calls this colonialism. Most inhabitants, however, are usually unperturbed by the island’s legal status. They care about putting food on the table, boarding a cruise, doing online shopping in North American stores, and having enough money to party and enjoy carnival. They do, however, increasingly think that the educated faction has a point when they say San Cristobal should go politically independent, stand on its own feet, and join the Caricom…in the future.
This is the island where the crazy man lives. Locals refer to the crazy man as simply Crazy, as few remember his Christian name. Crazy is mad as a hatter, and like all such eccentric figures, he can sporadically utter stunning truths. Here is a truth that has the inhabitants of San Cristobal preoccupied.
Saturday, as most of the islanders were busy going about their business, some still fatigued from the night before, the news dropped: Trump caught Maduro! Everyone and their neighbor began asking, “What happened?” “You are lying!” “Could it be True?” “What's going to happen now?” “Trump says, the USA will run Venezuela.”
A crowd gathered, and a heated conversation ensued. Some lauded Trump for capturing the rogue who had caused so many Venezuelans sorrow and grief. Maduro, and before him Chavez, had transformed that Caribbean jewel with all the oil in the world into a country full of hungry people fleeing for their lives. Sister islands such as Aruba and Curaçao were being flooded with Venezuelans whom the authorities there could now send back. “Thank Trump and Jesus,” they exclaimed for ridding the region of Maduro, a drug lord who ruined so many American and Caribbean lives. Kamla Persad-Bissessar, the Prime Minister of Trinidad & Tobago, they said, was right to support Trump. She was now the Caribbean leader to look up to, not the Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who cowardly said, “Venezuela is our friend. The United States of America is our friend. Such spineless foolishness.
Others involved in the conversation, however, contested what they considered the character assassination of Maduro. For them, the mustached strong man of Venezuela is a revolutionary in league with the deceased Maurice Bishop, Fidel Castro, Marcus Garvey, and Che Guevara. Trump, they insisted, is a convicted felon and a close friend of the notorious pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, who had no right to come after Maduro. Didn’t former Fox news star Tucker Carlson, who has a fan or two on the island, they averred claim that Maduro had “banned pornography, banned abortion, banned gay marriage, banned sex changes, and banned usury”. In their estimation, Maduro was a revolutionary with Christian values, the best combination. What’s more, he had openly pledged to support Caricom in their bid for reparations against what he called savage European countries. Being against Maduro is being against the ancestors who suffered and struggled and persevered, so that Caribbean people can fight today. Mottley was right to remain supportive of Venezuela. Kamla was another imperial lackey. Remember, they said, quoting the legendary Johnny Clarke, “they sold Marcus Garvey for rice and peas.” “How much did Trump pay Venezuelans to betray Maduro?
As the heated conversation discussing what had happened to Maduro, and how it should be interpreted, was about to reach boiling point, Crazy ran up to the crowd and sang in a melody borrowed from the Might Shadow’s Dat Soca Boat that “what happened is part of what is happening”. He repeated the lines and sang in such a way, like a mantra, that it caused the crowd to go silent. Then Crazy took the opportunity to explain that what happened to Maduro is connected to CECOT in San Salvador and the smaller slave plantations in the USA. “Plantations?” They corrected him, “those are prisons. Crazy snapped back, “No, they are prison industrial complexes, read a book. Prisoners are slaves who work on these former plantations for free or next to nothing. CECOT, according to Crazy, which currently holds 110.000 people detained, who are not allowed counsel or communication with family and friends, is the future in the present. “You have workers who will never again be able to procreate, who will work till they die and never see family and friends. He went on to say that many of the people being deported from the USA end up in CECOT, never to be seen again, replenishing the cheap labor force. “The Middle Passage all over again. “What does that have to do with us”, one man nervously blasted as though warding off an omen? “That depends on our future location” Crazy softly replied, “when Trump is finished deporting all those immigrants, and imprisons able-bodied poor Americans in slave plantations while the rest die of opioid overdoses, then good gentleman, then, the new indentured workers from the politically independent Caribbean and Latin America will be strangled with H2-A visas to pick oranges, play nanny, and do construction work. The New World order that Trump dreams of, a good gentleman, is one in which politically independent countries in the Americas supply cheap labor, jailed labor, natural resources, and open their markets to the USA. Don’t worry, though, the Americans will still vacation here in San Cristobal and in the Riviera. Trump plans to build on the rubble of Gaza. That is a new game.”
“Well, then, we are safe, being a tourist destination,” the man fumbled. “It all depends on our future location,…You think Trump can sink the Soca Boat!” Then Crazy departed, singing his Shadow-inspired rhyme, “What happened is part of what is happening.

Prof. dr. Francio Guadeloupe
University of Amsterdam/Royal Netherlands Institute for Southeast Asian & Caribbean Studies

Pedro de Weever, St. Maarten journalist and novelist.

~Flight disruptions to the French Antilles due to the Venezuela crisis. Learn about cancellations, DGAC safety measures, and travel advice.~

PHILIPSBURG:--- The ongoing geopolitical situation in Venezuela has sent ripples through international air travel, specifically affecting routes connecting mainland France to the French Antilles. Travelers planning trips to Guadeloupe, Martinique, or Saint Martin faced uncertainty this morning as disruptions hit major transatlantic lines.

While initial cancellations sparked concern, authorities have moved quickly to clarify the situation and ensure that vital air bridges remain open. Here is everything you need to know about the current status of flights, the specific cancellations that occurred, and the safety measures implemented by aviation authorities.

Understanding the Disruption

Early this morning, the crisis in Venezuela forced immediate changes to flight paths and schedules. The instability in the region necessitated a review of safety protocols for aircraft operating near Venezuelan airspace. As a result, several flights scheduled to depart from Paris were unable to take off, leaving passengers stranded and schedules in disarray.

This disruption highlights the delicate nature of international air travel, where geopolitical events thousands of miles away can have an immediate impact on holiday plans and business travel.

Specific Flight Cancellations

The immediate impact was felt across four major transatlantic connections departing from Paris Orly and Paris Roissy-Charles de Gaulle airports. These cancellations affected both the outbound flights to the Caribbean and their corresponding return legs.

Flights from Paris Orly:

• Fort-de-France: Flight AF 0840, expected to land at 14:50, was cancelled. Consequently, the return flight AF 0839, scheduled for 17:35, was also grounded.
• Pointe-à-Pitre: Flight AF 0750, expected at 15:25, did not depart. Its return leg, flight AF 0751 scheduled for 18:00, was cancelled.

Flights from Paris Roissy (CDG):

• Sint Maarten: Flight AF 0498, expected at 15:00, was cancelled, along with the return flight AF 0499 (scheduled for 17:10).
• Sint Maarten: A second rotation, flight AF 0446 (expected 17:35)

• and its return flight AF 0441 (scheduled 19:45), were also cancelled.

DGAC Measures: Keeping the Skies Open

Despite these initial cancellations, the outlook for travel to the French Antilles remains positive thanks to swift regulatory action. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC), France's civil aviation authority, has implemented specific protocols to manage risks while keeping traffic flowing.

Limiting the No-Fly Zone

Crucially, the DGAC has not issued a blanket ban on flights to the region. Instead, they have adopted a targeted approach. The "no-fly" zone for French aircraft has been strictly limited to Venezuelan airspace itself.

This precision is vital. By isolating the danger zone to Venezuelan territory rather than the entire surrounding region, the DGAC allows airlines to navigate around the affected area. This decision ensures that the French Antilles—which rely heavily on air links for tourism, commerce, and family connections—do not remain cut off from the mainland.

New Safety Requirements for Airlines

To support this strategy, the DGAC has mandated new operational requirements for airlines maintaining these routes. The primary measure involves fuel management.

Airlines operating flights to and from the French Antilles are now required to plan for a "higher fuel intake." This extra fuel provides pilots with greater flexibility. It allows aircraft to take longer, circuitous routes to avoid Venezuelan airspace completely without compromising safety or risking fuel exhaustion.

Because of these adjustments, French airlines have been cleared to resume and maintain both transatlantic flights and regional traffic between the islands.

What This Means for Travelers

If you are currently traveling or have a flight booked to Martinique, Guadeloupe, or Saint Martin in the coming days, the news is largely reassuring. The air bridge is active.

However, the situation remains fluid. While the regulatory framework is in place to keep planes flying, operational adjustments take time. Rerouting flights around Venezuela adds flight time and logistical complexity, which could lead to delays even if flights are not cancelled.

Actionable Advice

To minimize stress and uncertainty during your journey, we recommend the following steps:

1. Check Your Flight Status: Do not assume your flight is on time, even if you haven't received a cancellation notice. Check your flight status frequently on your airline's official website or mobile app.
2. Update Contact Details: Ensure your airline has your current email and mobile number so they can reach you immediately with updates.
3. Arrive Early: Given the potential for longer check-in queues as airlines re-accommodate passengers from cancelled flights, arrive at the airport earlier than usual.
4. Contact Your Airline Directly: If your flight was among the four cancelled rotations mentioned above, contact your airline immediately to discuss rebooking options.

The maintenance of air ties between France and its overseas territories is a priority. While the crisis in Venezuela presents a challenge, the implemented safety measures ensure that you can still reach your destination safely. Stay informed, stay patient, and safe travels.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten, Dr. Luc Mercelina, has expressed deep concern for St. Maarteners and visitors currently abroad, particularly those in the United States and Europe, as regional aviation disruptions continue to affect travel to and from the island. Special attention is being given to students expected to return home ahead of the resumption of school on Monday, as well as families and visitors impacted by widespread flight cancellations.

“My thoughts are with all St. Maarteners and visitors who are currently stranded or facing uncertainty abroad,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated. “My government is actively engaged with airport authorities, airlines, and Kingdom partners to provide support wherever possible and to ensure that clear, reliable information is shared with the public.”

Upon receiving confirmation of these developments, Prime Minister Mercelina immediately held two separate telephone conversations with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr. Dick Schoof, and the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. David van Weel, to ensure that St. Maarten remains fully informed and aligned within the Kingdom of the Netherlands as the situation continues to evolve.

The Prime Minister continues to closely monitor international and regional developments impacting aviation operations across the Caribbean, following the issuance of a NOTAM affecting Caribbean airspace, with specific implications for U.S.-registered aircraft.

Based on the latest confirmed information from Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE), airline operators, and Kingdom partners, all flights involving U.S.-registered aircraft are cancelled at this time, with the notice remaining in effect for a minimum of 24 hours and subject to extension.

“This situation does not involve the closure of St. Maarten’s airspace,” Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized. “Our airspace remains open. However, due to international aviation safety protocols and the current NOTAM restrictions, U.S.-registered aircraft are unable to operate, and several airlines have taken precautionary operational decisions.”

In addition to the grounding of U.S.-registered aircraft, several non-U.S. airlines have independently scaled back or cancelled operations out of an abundance of caution. As of this morning, KLM (Amsterdam) and Air France (Paris) flights to St. Maarten have been cancelled, along with multiple flights operated by U.S. carriers including JetBlue, Delta, American Airlines, Spirit, and Frontier from various U.S. cities. Regional airlines, including WINAIR, St. Barth Commuter, Tradewind Aviation, and SXM Airways, are also expected to scale down or temporarily suspend certain services.

In direct contact with WINAIR Chief Executive Officer Mr. Hans van Velde, the Prime Minister was informed that WINAIR’s Curaçao–Aruba–Curaçao flights have been postponed for today only. WINAIR will operate an additional recovery flight once full operations resume to accommodate displaced passengers from these two destinations. All the remaining WINAIR routes are proceeding as per the normal schedule at this time.

Passengers are strongly advised to contact their respective airlines directly for rebooking options and to rely solely on official airline and airport communications for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

After careful assessment, the Prime Minister determined that activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is not required at this time. However, in anticipation of increased congestion around Princess Juliana International Airport, the Prime Minister engaged directly with Korps Politie Sint Maarten (KPSM) Chief of Police Carl John to ensure adequate traffic management and public order in and around the airport area.

“We are taking measured, calm, and coordinated steps,” the Prime Minister stated. “Public safety, orderly traffic flow, and clear communication remain our focus.”

The Government of the Netherlands has reaffirmed that the safety of Dutch nationals remains the highest priority within the Kingdom. Dutch nationals currently in Venezuela are advised not to go out into the streets, to register with the Ministry’s information service, and to inform family and friends of their well-being.

“At this moment, there is no indication of further escalation,” Prime Minister Mercelina concluded. “Nevertheless, we remain fully engaged, vigilant, and in constant communication with our Kingdom partners and local stakeholders. The people of St. Maarten will be kept informed as the situation continues to evolve.”

The Prime Minister also ensured that a letter was electronically sent today to the Parliament of St. Maarten, addressed to the Honorable President of Parliament MP Sarah Wescot-Williams, providing a status update on these developments. “This step reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability, and keeping Parliament fully informed as we continue to address matters of national importance,” the Prime Minister concluded.

~ The US will run Venezuela until a judicious transfer.~

 USA:--- In a dramatic escalation of U.S. foreign policy, President Donald Trump announced a large-scale military operation in Venezuela on January 3, 2026, resulting in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, which involved U.S. special forces and the FBI, targeted key locations in Caracas, including military installations and government sites, leaving the city shaken by explosions and low-flying aircraft.

The Operation.

The strike, described by Trump as a "brilliant operation," was executed with precision and speed. U.S. Army Delta Force operatives, supported by helicopters and advanced air assets, infiltrated Caracas under the cover of darkness. Maduro and Flores were reportedly taken from their residence and transported out of the country aboard a U.S. Navy vessel. The couple is now en route to New York, where they will face charges in federal court, including narco-terrorism, cocaine trafficking, and weapons possession.

Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the indictments, stating, "They will soon face the full wrath of American justice on American soil." The charges stem from years of alleged criminal activity, including Maduro's leadership of the Cartel de los Soles, a group accused of facilitating drug trafficking into the United States.

Impact on Caracas

The operation left a visible mark on Venezuela's capital. Explosions rocked key sites, including the La Carlota airbase and Fort Tiuna, the country's largest military complex. Videos and images from the scene showed burning vehicles, damaged infrastructure, and plumes of smoke rising over the city. Residents reported being awakened by loud detonations and the sight of helicopters overhead. Many streets remained eerily quiet in the aftermath, as citizens stayed indoors, uncertain of what would come next.

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López condemned the attack, calling it "the greatest outrage the country has suffered." He vowed to resist any foreign military presence, while Vice President Delcy Rodríguez decried the loss of civilian and military lives, demanding proof of life for Maduro and Flores.

International Reactions

The operation has drawn mixed reactions globally. Supporters, including U.S. allies in Florida, praised the move as a decisive step toward ending Maduro's regime. Florida Representative Carlos Gimenez likened the event to "the Fall of the Berlin Wall." At the same time, Vice President JD Vance emphasized the need to stop drug trafficking and recover stolen oil assets.

However, critics have raised concerns about the legality and implications of the strike. Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Jim Himes, questioned the lack of Congressional approval and the absence of a clear post-operation strategy. Internationally, Russia and Iran condemned the attack as a violation of Venezuela's sovereignty, while European leaders called for de-escalation and adherence to international law.

What’s Next for Venezuela?

The future of Venezuela remains uncertain. The country's constitution requires Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to assume leadership and call for elections within 30 days. However, the opposition, led by exiled politician Edmundo González and Nobel laureate María Corina Machado, sees this as an opportunity for a democratic transition. Machado, who has been preparing for an "orderly and peaceful" transition of power, could play a pivotal role in shaping Venezuela's future.

Meanwhile, the U.S. faces mounting pressure to justify its actions and outline a plan for stabilizing the region. Trump defended the operation as a necessary measure to combat narco-terrorism, stating, "This was about justice and protecting American lives."

A Turning Point in U.S.-Venezuela Relations

The capture of Nicolás Maduro marks a significant moment in U.S.-Venezuela relations, with potential ripple effects across Latin America. As the world watches, the operation underscores the Trump administration's willingness to take bold, unilateral action on the global stage, raising questions about the balance between justice, diplomacy, and the rule of law.