The government of Antigua and Barbuda says it is closely monitoring rising tensions between Venezuela and the United States, stressing that diplomacy must prevail to preserve stability in the Caribbean.

Cabinet spokesman Maurice Merchant told reporters that Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s administration is watching developments “very carefully” and remains committed to the principle that the region should remain a zone of peace.

“Antigua and Barbuda is always concerned if there are military movements within the waters of the region,” Merchant explained. “We would petition all parties to exercise good judgment and to find diplomatic ways of resolving any issue.”

The comments follow questions at the weekly Cabinet press briefing about the potential impact of the standoff between Caracas and Washington. While no direct threats to Antigua and Barbuda have been identified, officials say regional security remains a priority, alongside continued cooperation with neighbouring states and international partners.

The government has consistently advocated non-military solutions in regional disputes, arguing that Caribbean nations are best served by stability, trade, and cooperation rather than confrontation.