To the International Community, the French Government, and the Citizens of the Caribbean

On this day, January 3, 2026, the history of our region is tipping into a perilous uncertainty. The brutal military intervention by the United States on Venezuelan soil, dubbed « Operation Absolute Resolve« , and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro constitute a flagrant violation of international law and the sovereignty of peoples.

As citizens and observers of the Caribbean, we cannot remain silent in the face of what appears to be a return to « gunboat diplomacy. »

The forced exfiltration of a sitting Head of State, regardless of the criticisms directed at his governance, sets a disastrous precedent for global stability. This unilateral act sweeps aside the principles of the United Nations Charter. Peace cannot be imposed by airstrikes and abductions; it must arise from dialogue and regional mediation. In my humble opinion, this is a denial of sovereignty and a dangerous precedent.

For us—Martinicans, Guadeloupeans, and for the entire Caribbean basin—this destabilization is not merely a distant geopolitical issue. It is a direct threat with major economic and social risks.

I wish to bring to your attention several impacts that will affect us directly:

Energy Shock: Venezuela holds the world’s largest oil reserves. The ignition of conflict in the region and the military control of oil infrastructure risk causing an immediate surge in fuel and gas prices, striking a direct blow to the purchasing power of Martinican families who are already vulnerable.

Regional Insecurity: The transformation of Venezuela into an open conflict zone threatens the security of our sea and air routes.

Migratory Crisis: A civil war or prolonged occupation will inevitably worsen the exodus of populations, creating unprecedented humanitarian pressure on neighboring islands, including ours, which are not prepared for such a crisis.

As a responsible citizen, it is with the gravity of the moment and solemnity that I call upon:

The French Government to condemn this unilateral intervention with the utmost firmness and to demand respect for the physical integrity of the captured president as well as that of his wife. France must be a voice for peace and mediation within the European Union and the UN Security Council.

Regional Bodies (CARICOM, OECS) to mobilize to protect the Caribbean as a « Zone of Peace » and to refuse any use of Caribbean territories as rear bases for military operations.

Citizen Solidarity to remain vigilant in the face of the social and economic consequences that this crisis will generate in our territories.

The Caribbean must not be a playground for imperialist powers. Our future depends on stability and fraternity between the peoples of our region, and not on the force of arms.

Done in Martinique, January 3, 2026.

VALCIN Kamal – Engaged Citizen – Founder of the UTILES Martinique Party