Netherlands to Limit Joint Anti-Drug Operations with US After Venezuela Attack

The Netherlands announced it will cease cooperating with U.S. anti-drug operations beyond its Caribbean territorial waters, citing legal and sovereignty concerns over Operation Southern Spear’s aggressive actions—including lethal strikes on suspected smuggling boats and the reported capture of Venezuela’s president. While reaffirming the U.S. as a key ally, Dutch officials stressed adherence to UNCLOS and domestic law, mirroring broader international criticism and reports that the U.K. curtailed intelligence sharing; the Netherlands will continue enforcement only within its own waters.