CARICOM Leaders Wrap Up Summit Amid Concerns Over Trump Policies

As Caribbean leaders conclude their three-day summit, they remain keenly aware of the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies toward the region. While these policies are expected to create difficulties—including mass deportations, cuts to development aid, and a shift in U.S. engagement with Cuba and Venezuela—leaders agree that opportunities may also emerge.

One of the most pressing concerns is Trump’s immigration stance, which now targets nearly half a million Haitians living in the U.S. under temporary legal protection. CARICOM leaders acknowledge that every country has a right to enforce its immigration laws but remain concerned about the economic and social fallout for returning migrants.

Former St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister and current Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas stressed the importance of maintaining dialogue with Washington.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne also acknowledged the potential strain on Caribbean economies due to U.S. policy shifts, saying regional governments must find ways to sustain development despite the challenges.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves observed that while President Trump was absent from the summit, his policies loomed large over discussions. However, he noted that Trump’s approach may have encouraged greater engagement from other international partners, such as the European Union.

Meanwhile, Bahamian Prime Minister Phillip Davis urged CARICOM to avoid entanglement in geopolitical tensions that could negatively impact the region. Similarly, Montserrat Premier Reuben Meade, returning to regional politics after a decade, advised Caribbean nations to reduce their reliance on the U.S. and seek alternative global partnerships.

Beyond immigration, U.S. aid to the region has significantly declined. President Trump has ordered a freeze on funding and a review of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). In 2003, USAID provided $456 million in development assistance to the Caribbean, with Haiti receiving the largest share at $393 million, followed by Jamaica with $26 million and Belize with $20 million. However, aid contributions to CARICOM nations have since dwindled, raising concerns about the future of key development projects.