{"id":158942,"date":"2022-09-06T07:39:34","date_gmt":"2022-09-06T11:39:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/?p=158942"},"modified":"2022-09-06T07:39:34","modified_gmt":"2022-09-06T11:39:34","slug":"antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/","title":{"rendered":"Antigua And Barbuda: Between Two Superpowers"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Rawlston Pompey<\/strong><\/p>

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Through a \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty,\u2019 <\/strong>the nation appeared to have submitted its \u2018Sovereignty\u2019 <\/strong>to United States monopoly. It may have unwittingly permitted its \u2018Security Forces\u2019 <\/strong>and a disguised team of foreign investigators as \u2018FBI Observers\u2019<\/strong> in conducting a search of \u2018Russian Superyacht Alfa Nero.\u2019<\/strong> It may have been confused over the declaration of; (a) \u2018War on Crime;<\/strong> (b)<\/strong> War on Drug;<\/strong> (c); War on Superyacht; and War on a Nation.\u2019<\/strong> A news story states that; \u2018The Yacht and its Russian owner, Andrey Guryev on sanctions lists issued by the United States, United Kingdom and European Union\u2019 [ABS TV\/Radio: August 20, 2022].<\/strong><\/p>\n

PERSPECTIVE<\/strong><\/p>

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This commentary looks at: (i) \u2018The Shiprider\u2019 Agreement and Bilateral Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT): (ii)<\/strong> The \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> position on; (v) \u2018The Shiprider\u2019 Agreement that may have been properly used;<\/strong> (iii) Role and function of the \u2018ONDCP:\u2019 (iv)<\/strong> Role and function of the DPP: (v) E<\/strong>xpedient use of \u2018MLA Treaty; (vi) Search of a \u2018Russian Superyacht; (vii) <\/strong>Suspect reasons and timing for the \u2018Search;<\/strong>\u2019 and (viii)<\/strong> Implications for future \u2018Foreign Relations\u2019<\/strong> with Russia.\u2019<\/p>

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STRIFE AND WAR<\/strong><\/p>\n

In a world, torn by \u2018Strife and War,\u2019<\/strong> even when it was obvious that a moral wrong was committed, struggling under economic depression, weak nations shall follow those with thriving economies, but also militarily strong.\u00a0 Whatever, and whichever nation shall be used in achieving their objectives, if the \u2018End justifies the means,\u2019<\/strong> then small nations shall be used. When State-owned media revealed that \u2018Russian Superyacht, Alfa Nero\u2019<\/strong> was searched by local law enforcement agencies, it was never because they had reasonable grounds for suspecting that the \u2018Skipper and Crew\u2019<\/strong> had entered its territorial waters illegally. Neither could it have been said that the \u2018Yacht and Crew\u2019<\/strong> were engaged in; (a) Narcotics; (b) Gun; (c) Human smuggling; or (d) Human trafficking.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>

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SUPERPOWER SQUABBLE<\/strong><\/p>\n

Regional leadership shall know that when two \u2018Superpower nations\u2019 <\/strong>begin to \u2018Squabble\u2019<\/strong> over armed conflict, vulnerable nations become sandwiched in the middle. \u00a0Their attitude and their global influence, economic and military dominance, have positioned them to make pawns of small independent and non-independent States. Though no island-nation had provoked the \u2018Russia\/Ukraine War,\u2019<\/strong> and has neither the economic power or military capacity to wage war, several islands have been drawn into the armed conflict. This has been so, for reasons of their colonial status and decisions taken by the colonial powers. The case of \u2018British Dependencies; (i) \u2018Anguilla: (ii) Bahamas; (iii) British Virgin Islands,\u2019<\/strong> as well as the independent nation of \u2018Antigua and Barbuda,\u2019 <\/strong>makes the point.<\/p>

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UNFRIENDLY COUNTRIES<\/strong><\/p>

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Notwithstanding a war was being fought thousands of miles away from the \u2018Eastern Caribbean,\u2019<\/strong> no \u2018Caribbean Leader\u2019<\/strong> shall treat lightly its impact on the international community. Clear warnings have been given to all a sundry by \u2018Russian President Vladmir Putin.\u2019 <\/strong>As the \u2018United Kingdom\u2019<\/strong> has featured prominently in the call for international \u2018Sanctions\u2019 to be imposed on the \u2018Russian\u2019 <\/strong>nation, its \u2018Dependencies\u2019<\/strong> have not escaped the attention of \u2018President Vladmir Putin.\u2019<\/strong> Consequently, the \u2018President\u2019<\/strong> has listed the Caribbean islands of; (i)<\/strong> \u2018Anguilla [March 9, 2022]; (ii) Bahamas [Loop: July 25, 2022]; and (iii) British Virgin Islands\u2019<\/strong> as \u2018Unfriendly Countries\u2019 [Moscow: TASS:<\/strong> Moscow: July 24, 2022].<\/strong><\/p>\n

CROSS OF BRITAIN<\/strong><\/p>\n

These innocent \u2018Island Dependencies,\u2019<\/strong> for want of \u2018Sovereignty,\u2019 international status,<\/strong> and a voice in \u2018World Affairs,\u2019<\/strong> continue to labor under \u2018Colonial Rule.\u2019 <\/strong>As \u2018British Dependencies,\u2019 <\/strong>such status has subjected these \u2018Island States\u2019<\/strong> to share the \u2018Sins of Britain,\u2019 <\/strong>and consequentially made to carry its \u2018Cross.\u2019 <\/strong>They have been prevented from conducting \u2018International Business\u2019<\/strong> with \u2018Russian\u2019<\/strong> companies and banking institutions.\u2019<\/strong> In the case of independent \u2018Antigua and Barbuda,\u2019 <\/strong>it has been drawn in for reasons of a \u2018Bilateral Treaty\u2019<\/strong> on \u2018Trans-National Crime.\u2019 Instruct<\/strong>ively, this nation enjoys no diplomatic ties with the \u2018Nations-at-War.\u2019 <\/strong>The only war it has known, is the \u2018Online Gaming Dispute,\u2019<\/strong> ironically, with the \u2019United States.\u2019<\/p>\n

ECONOMIC FRIENDS<\/strong><\/p>\n

Not only had the independent island nations in the \u2018Caribbean Community (CARICOM)\u2019 and Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)\u2019 <\/strong>were at variance with the \u2018United States, <\/strong>but also its lopsided content of the \u2018Agreement.\u2019 From an economic standpoint, unlike certain other nations, the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> has never been seen as the best of \u2018Economic Friends,\u2019<\/strong> to this nation. If it were so, then the long running \u2018Online Gaming Dispute\u2019<\/strong> shall have been long settled. Besides, if this \u2018Superpower\u2019 nation had regard for \u2018Organizational rules, regulations and arbitration decisions,\u2019<\/strong> then it shall have complied with its \u2018International Trade Dispute Ruling.\u2019 <\/strong>Its unfriendliness,\u2019 began with the contentious \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE<\/strong><\/p>\n

Individually and\/or collectively, these impoverished islands, scattered across the Caribbean Sea,\u2019 <\/strong>are neither of any \u2018Strategic Importance\u2019<\/strong> nor of natural resources or economic interests to \u2018Russia.\u2019 <\/strong>Besides, they pose no threat, military or otherwise.<\/strong> With no international voice or influence, these \u2018British Dependencies\u2019<\/strong> continue to struggle either for economic assistance or for another status. They have all been restricted by \u2018Britain\u2019<\/strong> from conducting business, either with \u2018Russian Companies or Banks\u2019 [Moscow: TASS:<\/strong> Moscow: July 24, 2022]. <\/strong>\u00a0It may not have been considered diplomatically fatal or foolhardy, given the steely resolve of an imperious \u2018Russian President.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

DISQUIETING CONSEQUENCES<\/strong><\/p>\n

As seen through television footage, the, world has seen \u2018Horrendous Imagery of a War\u2019<\/strong> being waged, not only relentlessly and with ferocious intensity, but also in the most; (a) \u2018Deadly; (b) Destructive; and (c) Costly\u2019<\/strong> way. Research has revealed startling statistical data. For instance, there have been \u201829, 587 Deaths: Injured 52, 890: <\/strong>People displaced from their homes, 14 million.\u2019 <\/strong>Buildings reportedly destroyed were said to have been \u20182, 841.\u2019 <\/strong>Damage assessment was described as \u2018US$750 billion\u2019<\/strong> [<\/strong>Reuters: August 23, 2022]. <\/strong>In spite of not reacting to the permitted search of the \u2018Superyacht Alfa Nero\u2019<\/strong> within its maritime borders, there may still be \u2018Disquieting Consequences\u2019 <\/strong>for the nation.<\/p>\n

DETESTATION AND CONDEMNATION<\/strong><\/p>\n

In providing \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance\u2019<\/strong> to another \u2018Superpower- United States\u2019<\/strong> in \u2018Searching the Russian Superyacht,\u2019<\/strong> it shall have been seen as a show of \u2018Detestation and Condemnation\u2019<\/strong> of the military wrath descended upon the \u2018Ukrainian nation and people.\u2019<\/strong> Though quietly supportive of \u2018International Sanctions,\u2019 <\/strong>the nation shall rightfully claim its commitment to, and discharge of its \u2018International Obligations\u2019<\/strong> on \u2018Crime and Punishment.\u2019<\/strong> This is irrefutably what \u2018MLAT\u2019 <\/strong>is all about. Given the timing and \u2018Execution of the Request,\u2019<\/strong> somebody shall have seen that it was more in keeping with avoidance of the \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement.\u2019 \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

RUSSIAN ROULETTE<\/strong><\/p>\n

Consequent upon the long established \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement,\u2019<\/strong> had the intention been; (a) \u2018Nabbing its crew; and (b) Seizing the luxurious \u2018Superyacht,\u2019 <\/strong>such shall have been easily achieved without the intervention of the \u2018Security Forces.\u2019<\/strong> Though seemingly no a disconcerting factor, making public the \u2018Request,\u2019<\/strong> suggested that the nation had been exploited in playing the dangerous \u2018Kremlin\u2019s Game- Russian Roulette.\u2019 <\/strong>The purposes of the \u2018Bilateral Treaty\u2019<\/strong> that speaks to; (a) \u2018Criminal investigation; (b) Prosecution; and (c) Crime prevention.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

SANCTIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n

Given these purposes, <\/strong>the issue of \u2018Sanctions\u2019<\/strong> bears no relationship to any criminal act known to local law enforcers. <\/strong>The nation appeared to have confused support for \u2018International Sanctions\u2019<\/strong> with rendering \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance\u2019<\/strong> to the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> in investigating \u2018Trans-national Crime.<\/strong> The \u2018Search Request\u2019 <\/strong>made by \u2018US Federal Authorities,\u2019<\/strong> was for the purposes of facilitating conduct of \u2018Supervised Investigations\u2019 <\/strong>on the \u2018Russian-owned Superyacht Alfa Nero.\u2019 <\/strong><\/p>\n

INVESTMENT MIGRATION<\/strong><\/p>\n

Clearly, with its desire to restrict; (a) \u2018Investment Migration to the region; and (b) Seizure and recovery of<\/strong> illegitimate or criminal proceeds,\u2019<\/strong> nations then affected, considered it necessary to enter into bilateral arrangements. Such entails a \u2018Treaty\u2019 <\/strong>called \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance\u2019 <\/strong>with regional territories. Such allows for nations to seek judicial authority in assisting in bringing those alleged or suspected \u2018Financial Criminals\u2019<\/strong> to justice. This nation, seeking to safeguard its fragile tourism-based economy, <\/strong>saw some developed nations, devised ways in crippling this nation, and the region\u2019s economy.<\/p>\n

WATCH-DOG AGENCY<\/strong><\/p>\n

Cited most of the independent islands as \u2018Major Money Laundering Centres\u2019 [US: INSCR: 2018], <\/strong>they have accused these islands of operating financial systems that were either unregulated or poorly regulated. Several were \u2018Black Listed.\u2019<\/strong> \u00a0Consequently, this saw the establishment of the \u2018Watch Dog Agency- Financial Action Task Force (FATF). <\/strong>They have stipulated \u2018Recommendations\u2019 to guide the conduct of \u2018Financial Transactions.\u2019 <\/strong>Ensuring that the suspected \u2018MLCs\u2019 <\/strong>were closely monitored, they strategically placed in the heart of the Caribbean, an affiliate agency called \u2018Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF)\u2019 [Trinidad and Tobago: November 1996]. <\/strong><\/p>\n

CIP REVENUE STREAM<\/strong><\/p>\n

Published accusatory claims describing Caribbean countries, particularly those with the \u2018Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP)\u2019 <\/strong>as \u2018Major Money Laundering Jurisdictions\u2019 [NSCR: 2018], <\/strong>had been seen as the cause of provocation consternation in the region\u2019s leadership. Exercising more strangulating power,<\/strong> these \u2018Small Island States\u2019 <\/strong>were further coerced into giving legislative consideration to the strengthening \u2018Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing.\u2019 <\/strong>Even when it affected their national economic interest and relations with other friendly countries, except \u2018Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves\u2019 [St. Vincent and the Grenadines],<\/strong> most \u2018CARICOM\/OECS\u2019<\/strong> leaders, seemed mortally afraid to venture an open criticism of \u2018US Foreign Policies\u2019 <\/strong>towards them.<\/p>\n

UNDERMINDING RELATIONSHIP<\/strong><\/p>\n

Subjecting \u2018CIP \u2018Revenue Stream,\u2019<\/strong> to intense scrutiny, baseless accusation and mounting foreign pressure, prompted a provocative swipe by \u2018Prime Minister Browne.\u2019 <\/strong>Contemptuous, yet with testicular fortitude, he was quoted as saying; \u2018When they come with these \u2018Audacious Mendacities,\u2019 <\/strong>they are undermining relationship between the \u2018United States and CARICOM countries.\u2019 <\/strong>Though not necessarily trying to \u2018Blow Steam\u2019 <\/strong>on a hot summer day, continuing, his delivery, he was further quoted as saying; \u2018The United States is becoming more and more hostile\u2019 <\/strong>toward these nations in leveling \u2018Money Laundering Accusations\u2019 <\/strong>against them [Investment Migration Insider: April 18, 2018].<\/strong> Somehow, fearing \u2018Economic Repercussions,\u2019<\/strong> he too, avoided reading the entire \u2018Riot Act\u2019<\/strong> to \u2018United States Justice Department.<\/strong>\u2019<\/p>\n

VITAL REVENUE STREAM<\/strong><\/p>\n

The \u2018British and European nations and the United States,\u2019<\/strong> were well aware of the thriving \u2018Online Gaming Industry\u2019 <\/strong>in the region. To all intents and purposes, they appeared to have connivingly and collaboratively devised an approach in dismantling this industry, considered a \u2018Vital<\/strong> Revenue Stream.\u2019<\/strong> Then some fifteen (15) years after severing the umbilical cord of \u2018British Colonialism\u2019<\/strong> [November 1, 1981], the nation, along with other independent regional States have been coerced into being a party to a \u2018Foreign-Decided Treaty.\u2019 <\/strong>The \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement,\u2019 <\/strong>though reciprocal, the unilaterally-decided contents provide for the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> to have \u2018Unfettered Access,\u2019 <\/strong>and to conduct \u2018Counter-narcotic operations, as it deems necessary<\/p>\n

SUPERPOWER COERCION<\/strong><\/p>\n

This \u2018Agreement\u2019<\/strong> was not without controversy. The regional leadership abhorred it. The leaders felt that the \u2018Agreement\u2019<\/strong> serves only to protect the national interests of the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong>. Though some fearfully and quietly expressed and had shown meaningless reluctance, unable to avoid its wrath, and harboring no illusions, the \u2018OECS\u2019 wriggled, but <\/strong>buckled, and eventually yielded to \u2018Superpower Coercion.\u2019 <\/strong>This, undoubtedly, speaks to its imposing attitude of \u2018Superpower Nations.\u2019<\/strong> This was not the case for two of \u2018CARICOM\u2019s larger<\/strong> States.<\/p>\n

UNFETTERED ACCESS<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u2019<\/strong> Incidentally, the \u2018Agreement\u2019 <\/strong>allows contracting parties permission for their respective Law enforcement agencies to; (a) \u2018\u2026Pursue and intercept vessels in each other\u2019s territorial sea to; (a) Apprehend vessels and crew; (b) Ship boarding; (c) Shipriding; and (d) Overflight in territorial airspaces\u2019 [1996]. <\/strong>Though not so written, the \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement\u2019<\/strong> speaks to surrendering the nation\u2019s \u2018Sovereignty.\u2019<\/strong> Similarly, the same can be said of the \u2018MLA Treaty.\u2019<\/strong> Instructively, the former excludes joint- local law enforcement agencies, even within their respective \u2018Maritime Boundaries and Airspaces.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

SPECIFICS OF TREATY<\/strong><\/p>\n

Entered into force in their respective jurisdictions [July 1, 1999], <\/strong>the \u2018MLA Treaty\u2019 <\/strong>sets out \u2018Specifics\u2019 <\/strong>to be contained in the event of a \u2018Request.\u2019 <\/strong>These shall include: (i) \u2018Name of the authority conducting the investigation, prosecution or proceedings; (ii) Description of subject-matter; and (iii) Nature and criminal offence [Article 3]. <\/strong>A key component in the \u2018Treaty\u2019 <\/strong>is \u2018Confidentiality.\u2019 <\/strong>It unambiguously states; \u2018The \u2018Requested State\u2019 shall use its best efforts to keep confidential; (i) \u2018A Request; and (ii) Its Contents\u2019<\/strong> [Article 5 (5)].<\/strong> As it affects \u2018Costs\u2019<\/strong> for executing the said \u2018Request,\u2019<\/strong> such shall be borne by the \u2018Requested State.\u2019 Conversely, costs relating to incidentals involving; (a) \u2018Expert witnesses:<\/strong> (b)<\/strong> Translation; (c)<\/strong> Interpretation: and (d)<\/strong> Transcription,\u2019 shall be borne by the \u2018Requesting State\u2019 [Article 6].<\/strong><\/p>\n

SCOPE OF ASSISTANCE<\/strong><\/p>\n

The \u2018Scope of Assistance\u2019 <\/strong>as contained in the \u201819 Articles.<\/strong>\u2019 As lettered in the \u2018Treaty,\u2019 a \u2018Written Request\u2019<\/strong> shall contain inter alia; (c) \u2018Locating and identifying persons of interests; (d)<\/strong> Service of Documents; (e)<\/strong> Transferring persons detained\/arrested in custody; (f)<\/strong> Executing request for Searches and Seizures; (g) Immobilizing and forfeiture of assets; <\/strong>and (h)<\/strong> Any other form of assistance not prohibited by law\u2019 [Article 2].<\/strong> Anticipating that a \u2018Request\u2019<\/strong> may not find favor with a \u2018Requested State,\u2019 the \u2018Treaty\u2019 states; \u2018The execution of the \u2018Request\u2019<\/strong> may be denied if it would; (a) \u2018Prejudice the nation\u2019s Security or other essential public interests of the \u2018Requested State; <\/strong>or (b)<\/strong> If its execution would be prejudice to the \u2018Constitution\u2019<\/strong> [Article 3].<\/p>\n

ECONOMIC INTERESTS<\/strong><\/p>\n

Even as the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> conjured up the \u2018Agreement,\u2019<\/strong> this nation had no desire, and no expressed intention in establishing \u2018Bilateral Counternarcotics Cooperation\u2019 <\/strong>with any nation [JSTOR: 1998]. <\/strong>However, with its \u2018Economic Interests\u2019<\/strong> at stake, under a coercive spell, it became \u2018Signatory\u2019 <\/strong>with other regional States. The States offering stubborn resistance were identified as \u2018Jamaica and Barbados.\u2019 <\/strong>The \u2018United States\u2019 <\/strong>perceived them as \u2018recalcitrant.\u2019 <\/strong>Demonstrating some degree of intolerance, a US representative was quoted as saying that the Caribbean leadership has shown \u2018lack of appreciation for the drug problem\u2019 [1996]. <\/strong>Imposing its will on these two nations, saw the implementation of punishing economic measures.<\/p>\n

SUPERPOWER EXPLOITATION<\/strong><\/p>\n

Clearly, reasonable inferences might be drawn that this \u2018Agreement\u2019 speaks more to \u2018Superpower Exploitation.\u2019 <\/strong>It is to be used conveniently, and as situations developed. In fact, that has been the only way the region has, and continues to see the both \u2018Agreement and Treaty.\u2019<\/strong> Touting the concept, \u2018Reciprocal Cooperation,\u2019<\/strong> it shall have been sufficiently clear to all nations that in the middle of armed conflict, the nation has been used conveniently. With or without logistical support, a \u2018Marine Patrol<\/strong> and \u2018an Airwing,\u2019<\/strong> the US territorial borders are off-limit to the conduct of any such operations.<\/p>\n

STREAKS OF STUBBORNNESS<\/strong><\/p>\n

The \u2018Streaks of Stubbornness\u2019 exhibited in signing the \u2018Agreement\u2019 saw the \u2018Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA)\u2019 [Barbados],<\/strong> being downgraded and became restrictive to \u2018American Carriers.\u2019 <\/strong>Similarly, when \u2018Jamaica\u2019 <\/strong>resisted aspects of the \u2018Agreement,\u2019<\/strong> Aid to its \u2018Defence Force (JDF)<\/strong>\u2019 was quickly suspended. Subsequently, it was forced to revisit the biding contents.\u2019 This resulted when two of its fisherfolk were reasonably suspected of being \u2018Kidnapped at Sea,\u2019<\/strong> and removed to a \u2018US Jurisdiction.\u2019 The Jamaican leadership insisted on fundamental changes. To its satisfaction, it signed a \u2018New Agreement\u2019 that allow for non-interception of Jamaican fisherfolk [JIS: February 6, 2004].<\/strong> Consequently, normal \u2018Foreign Relations\u2019<\/strong> was restored [Joc Com: July 2, 1997 and July 25, 1997].<\/p>\n

TREATY: CRIMINAL MATTERS<\/strong><\/p>\n

This nation, bound by a \u2018Bilateral Treaty,\u2019<\/strong> has found itself virtually entrapped between the two leading \u2018Superpower nations- United States and Russia.\u2019<\/strong> The very carefully crafted \u2018Treaty Objectives\u2019 <\/strong>presented by the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> and foisted upon the \u2018CARICOM AND OECS,\u2019<\/strong> states a; \u2018Desire to improve<\/strong> the effectiveness of the \u2018Law enforcement authorities\u2019<\/strong> of both countries in; (a) \u2018Investigation; (b) Prosecution; and (c) Prevention of crime<\/strong> through cooperation and \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance\u2019<\/strong> in criminal matters.\u2019 \u00a0<\/strong>It was duly signed [St. John\u2019s: October 31, 1996]; Ratified<\/strong> by the \u2018United States President\u2019 [USA: January 20, 1999]; <\/strong>and accorded \u2018Parliamentary Ratification\u2019<\/strong> by \u2018Antigua and Barbuda\u2019<\/strong> [ANU: June 17: 1999].\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

EXPEDIENTLY AND CONVENIENTLY<\/strong><\/p>\n

Non-aligned and non-aggressive, the tiny108-square mile nation of \u2018Antigua and Barbuda\u2019 had been sucked into the \u2018Russian\/Ukrainian\u2019<\/strong> conflict. That which it shall have known, was the \u2018United States\u2019 had found it being \u2018Expediently and Conveniently\u2019 useful. Those responsible for making \u2018Policy-Decision,\u2019 shall have known of all \u2018Available Options.\u2019 <\/strong>Thus, they shall have considered that which served the national interests.\u2019 Conversely, options that serve the interest of a requesting nation, shall be made available to them. These shall be conditional upon a duly ratified \u2018Agreement or Treaty.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

ADVANTAGEOUSLY BENEFICIALS<\/strong><\/p>\n

This \u2018Treaty\u2019 <\/strong>appears more \u2018Advantageously Beneficial\u2019<\/strong> to the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> and its allies \u2018Britain and the European Union,\u2019<\/strong> than it has been to the \u2018National Economic Interests.<\/strong>\u2019 Given this \u2018Treaty,\u2019<\/strong> this nation shall, at all material times, through its \u2018Law Enforcement Agencies and Agents,\u2019 <\/strong>act lawfully, justifiably and professionally. \u00a0The apparent \u2018Strategically-Timed Request\u2019<\/strong> from the \u2018United States of America\u2019 <\/strong>and a \u2018Bilateral Treaty,\u2019<\/strong> saw the \u2018Security Forces\u2019<\/strong> along with a team of \u2018FBI investigators,<\/strong> reportedly converged on the \u2018Russian Superyacht Alfa Nora.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

ECONOMIC SANCTIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n

The luxurious seacraft had not only lawfully entered the nation\u2019s territorial marine borders, but also completed \u2018Customs and Immigration\u2019 <\/strong>formalities to remain under legal protection. A war being waged thousands of miles away from the region was reported to being fought with ferocious intensity, sustained by heavy artillery bombardment. This was when \u2018Russian President Vladimir Putin\u2019<\/strong> used his \u2018Armed Forces,\u2019<\/strong> to impose his nation\u2019s \u2018Military Might\u2019 <\/strong>on the nation, people and government of \u2018Ukraine.\u2019<\/strong> Responding non-militarily, the \u2018United States; United Kingdom; and the European Union,<\/strong>\u2019 immediately called for \u2018Economic Sanctions\u2019<\/strong> to be imposed against the warmongering nation and oligarchy assets\u2019 [February 24, 2022].<\/p>\n

DIPLOMATIC ILLUSIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n

When this nation acceded to a \u2018Search Request,<\/strong>\u2019 it may have, in a subservient way, subordinated its independence and sovereignty to the dictates of the \u2018United States.\u2019 <\/strong>It may have been seen that the sovereign and independent nation of \u2018Antigua and Barbuda\u2019<\/strong> has been laboring under \u2018Diplomatic Illusions\u2019<\/strong> that it was obliged to lend support to the nations that had called for imposition of \u2018Sanctions\u2019 <\/strong>against \u2018Russia.\u2019 <\/strong>But in war, there is no such thing as \u2018Diplomacy.\u2019<\/strong> Given the \u2018Russian\/Ukrainian War,\u2019<\/strong> and the call by the \u2018United States\u2019 for the imposition of \u2018Economic Sanctions,\u2019<\/strong> including \u2018Seizure of Russian assets and Superyachts,<\/strong>\u2019 it required no \u2018Diplomatic Science,\u2019<\/strong> to show what was intended<\/p>\n

EASIEST WAY OUT<\/strong><\/p>\n

If this nation were to be seen for its \u2018Neutrality,\u2019 <\/strong>then \u2018National Security Strategists\u2019<\/strong> shall have looked for the \u2018Easiest Way Out.\u2019 <\/strong>Therefore, instead of acceding to the \u2018Search Request\u2019<\/strong> under the \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT),\u2019 <\/strong>the \u2018Optional Shiprider\u2019 Agreement\u2019 <\/strong>may have been considered. That which may have been usefully done, was allowance for the \u2018Russian Superyacht\u2019<\/strong> to be; (a) \u2018Replenish with fuel: (b) Ship stores: (c) Completion of Port, Customs and Immigration formalities\u2019 <\/strong>and safe and unimpeded departure of the \u2018Alfa Nero.\u2019<\/strong> Thus, with its marine presence,\u2019<\/strong> utilization of the \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement,<\/strong>\u2019 would have well-positioned the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> to deploy its \u2018Coastguard and Maritime Airwing\u2019 <\/strong>in achieving its objectives.<\/p>\n

AWKWARDLY WEDGED<\/strong><\/p>\n

Even with the grotesque statistics, the searching of the \u2018Russian Superyacht\u2019 <\/strong>lends neither justification, nor moral support to one \u2018Superpower\u2019 <\/strong>against another. That which they have over the ordinary membership of the \u2018United Nations,\u2019 is a \u2018Veto Power.\u2019<\/strong> Now, seemingly \u2018Awkwardly Wedged\u2019<\/strong> between the two leading \u2018Superpowers,\u2019 <\/strong>the nation shall be mindful of both its \u2018Foreign Policies and Foreign Relations.\u2019 <\/strong>It has been universally known that \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> nationals moving to invest capital in foreign jurisdictions, were often suspected of being involved in activities starved of legitimacy.<\/p>\n

FOREIGN PROTECTION<\/strong><\/p>\n

None may deny that region seems to hold magnetism for \u2018International Crooks, Fraudsters and Swindlers\u2019 (ICFS). <\/strong>Likened to Mariners facing a storm, many have sought \u2018Foreign Protection.\u2019<\/strong> Some have sought a place of refuge to nest and hatched suspected or questionable acquisition of wealth.\u2019\u00a0 <\/strong>None may also deny that most Caribbean nations have not been internationally known for producing and exporting \u2018Investors\u2019 <\/strong>accused of committing \u2018Financial Crimes.\u2019<\/strong> This nation has seen the fraudulent exploits of convicted \u2018Ponzi-Schemer, R. Allen Stanford\u2019 [USA: March 6, 2012]. <\/strong>He has brought notoriety to \u2018Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

FUGITIVES FROM JUSTICE<\/strong><\/p>\n

It is not only the responsibility of States to protect their \u2018State Assets,\u2019<\/strong> but also their national economic and public interest. Those that have often come under \u2018US Financial and Economic Scrutiny,\u2019<\/strong> include; (a) \u2018Fraudsters; (b) Swindlers; (c) Money Launderers; and (d) Ponzi-Schemers.\u2019 <\/strong>Research has shown that some came disguisedly as; (a) \u2018Foreign Investors; or (b) To acquire economic citizenship.\u2019<\/strong> Given subsequent developments, none may dispute that some that came to invest, have been identified as \u2018Fugitives from Justice.\u2019 <\/strong>They either came from the \u2018United States; China; or India.\u2019 <\/strong>Some have sought to escape the \u2018Long Arm of Law.\u2019 <\/strong>Though, some \u2018Treaties\u2019 <\/strong>have placed them within easy reach, some with mega wealth have capitalized on that which the \u2018Judicial System\u2019<\/strong> provides.<\/p>\n

DPP: ROLE AND FUNCTIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n

By an apparent act of expediency, the office of the \u2018Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)\u2019 <\/strong>had been expediently used by the \u2018Central Authority\u2019<\/strong> in giving effect to \u2018Articles\u2019 <\/strong>contained in the \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT).\u2019 <\/strong>In fact, the office and office holder, are \u2018Creatures of the Constitution\u2019 [CO: Section 87: 1981]. <\/strong>The \u2018Role and Functions\u2019<\/strong> of a \u2018DPP\u2019 are well described in the \u2018Constitution Order\u2019<\/strong> [Section 88 (1): CO: 1981]. That which shall not be disputable, is that the office holder has responsibility for \u2018Public Prosecutions.\u2019<\/strong> Though he\/she lacks no legal understanding of \u2018Treaties and Agreements,\u2019<\/strong> the \u2018DPP\u2019 does not coordinate or conduct \u2018Criminal Investigations.\u2019 <\/strong><\/p>\n

LEGAL OFFICERS<\/strong><\/p>\n

Notwithstanding, given his\/her legal expertise, nothing precludes them from undertaking oversight of matters that may be directed to the office. Suffice to say, that certain matters such as \u2018International Agreements and Treaties,\u2019<\/strong> are expected to be directed to those with responsibility for handling the nation\u2019s \u2018Legal Affairs.\u2019<\/strong> Objectively, there shall be no doubt that the \u2018Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs\u2019<\/strong> has been properly staffed with qualified, competent and efficient \u2018Legal Officers.\u2019<\/strong> These include; (i) \u2018An erudite Attorney General\u2019 <\/strong>and \u2018Principal Legal Adviser to the Government [Section 82]: (ii) A Solicitor General: (iii) Deputy Solicitor General; and (iv) Crown Solicitor.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

BEST LEGAL OPTION<\/strong><\/p>\n

The nation, being fully aware that the \u2018United States\u2019<\/strong> and its \u2018European Allies\u2019<\/strong> have imposed \u2018Sanctions\u2019<\/strong> against \u2018Russia,\u2019 <\/strong>may have been \u2018Circumspect\u2019 of its \u2018Search Request. <\/strong>These are the officers that, shall referrals made, shall have been well informed to guide an administration of its \u2018Best Legal Options.\u2019 <\/strong>\u00a0When these officers were seemingly overlooked from legal guidance of the contents of a \u2018Treaty,\u2019 this could very well lead to speculations that the \u2018Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs\u2019<\/strong> may have been staffed with more \u2018Legal Quacks,\u2019<\/strong> than are heard from non-whistling ducks. Though it might be so speculated, this may not necessarily be the case.<\/p>\n

STRATEGIC THINKING<\/strong><\/p>\n

Given its response to the \u2018Request,\u2019<\/strong> it shall have been seen that it had, in fact, discharged its \u2018International Obligation.\u2019<\/strong> Though not necessarily supportive of \u2018Russia\u2019s\u2019 <\/strong>armed intervention into \u2018Ukraine,\u2019 <\/strong>the nation may still be considered im<\/strong>prudent utilizing its \u2018Agencies\u2019 <\/strong>in searching the \u2018Russian Superyacht. <\/strong>This may have eliminated perceptions or suggestions that this nation acted in consort with the \u2018United States.\u2019 <\/strong>This may have been avoided, but only to the extent that \u2018National Security Strategists,\u2019 if any, <\/strong>have been \u2018Thinking\u2019<\/strong> of other options. Such have been seen as advisedly useful in guiding a better-informed decision. Except \u2018Prosecutorial Strategy,\u2019 in other endeavors, a \u2018DPP\u2019 possesses no such attribute.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

SEARCH ON OPEN SEA<\/strong><\/p>\n

In executing the \u2018Ship rider\u2019 Agreement\u2019 <\/strong>it has been the experience one of the contracting parties, neither know when US Coastguard patrolled, conducted operations nor conclude their operations. However, news reports often informed of \u2018Narcotics Seizures\u2019<\/strong> in the \u2018Caribbean<\/strong> Sea\u2019 [ANR: September 3, 2022]. <\/strong>Thus, utilizing its air and marine services, these would have allowed for the \u2018United States\u2019 agencies and agents to; (a) \u2018Pursue: (b) Disable by force, if necessary: (c) Intercept; (d) Conduct search; (e) Arrest crew and passengers: and (f) Seize the targeted Russian Superyacht.\u2019<\/strong> This would have been consistent with the long established \u2018Bilateral Shiprider\u2019 Agreement.\u2019 <\/strong>Moreover, it would also have achieved the objectives sought under the \u2018Treaty\u2019 [MLAT: Article 14].<\/strong><\/p>\n

ECONOMIC STRANGULATION<\/strong><\/p>\n

After plundering the region, and the British had left many \u2018Island States\u2019 financially depressed, this nation may have been given good reasons to have aught against both \u2018Britain and the United States.<\/strong>\u2019 Though the nation shares \u2018Economic Relationship\u2019<\/strong> with the \u2018Republic of China,\u2019 it has no desire to sever diplomatic relations with these nations. It shall not be lost to oblivion that this nation has been struggling under \u2018Economic Strangulation.\u2019<\/strong> Research has shown that some thirteen (13) years after severing \u2018British Colonialism,\u2019 this nation has been engaged <\/strong>in a long running and unresolved \u2018Online Gaming Dispute\u2019 <\/strong>with the \u2018United States.\u2019<\/strong> Through \u2018Trade Arbitration,\u2019<\/strong> and a modest right to the imposition of sanctions, this nation has shown extraordinary tolerance and restraint.<\/p>\n

POWERLESS<\/strong><\/p>\n

Though it has the \u2018Talk,\u2019 it seems mortally fearful of imposing sanctions against this offending \u2018Super powerful nation\u2019<\/strong> [Geneva: Reuters: December 21, 2007]. This nation\u2019s position is given to clear \u2018International Understanding.\u2019<\/strong> Though geographically located nearby, it bears no animosity toward any country, \u2018East and West.\u2019<\/strong> It contemplates no territorial conflict, and thus, seeks no engagement in any armed conflict with any nation. In fact, without \u2018an Airforce; Army or Navy.\u2019<\/strong> This nation is \u2018Militarily Powerless.\u2019<\/strong> Notwithstanding the ideological differences, be it; \u2018Capitalist; Communist of Extremist or Leftist,<\/strong>\u2019 with or without diplomatic relations, this nation, government and people consider themselves friend to members of the international community.<\/p>\n

SERIOUS ECONOMIC PRESSURE<\/strong><\/p>\n

It has been universally known that \u2018Leaders of Superpower Nations,\u2019<\/strong> are well-positioned to \u2018Exert Influence\u2019<\/strong> and are always ready to impose their will upon small island-States. Not for the first time the economic and military-powerful \u2018United States of America\u2019<\/strong> has imposed its will upon the impoverished nation of \u2018Antigua and Barbuda.\u2019<\/strong> For this nation, as it was for its regional neighbors, US authorities have placed these impoverished States under \u2018Serious Economic Pressure.\u2019 <\/strong>Given this nation\u2019s heavy reliance on its market for \u2018Tourism and Online Gaming Industries,\u2019<\/strong> it could do nothing, but to cooperate. This may have been obvious in the \u2018Shiprider\u2019 Agreement\u2019 [1999].<\/strong><\/p>\n

OVERTLY AND COVERTLY<\/strong><\/p>\n

It has been the professional knowledge and practice that certain law enforcement operations shall be conducted \u2018Overtly.\u2019<\/strong> Conversely, dependent upon the sensitive nature of the issue, some operations shall be conducted \u2018Covertly.\u2019<\/strong> Be it a request under a \u2018Treaty\u2019 or pertaining to acts of criminality, success is dependent upon four fundamentals; These include; (i) \u2018Intelligence gathering, sourced or observed: (ii) Confidentiality; (ii) The element of Surprise; and (iv) Timing.\u2019<\/strong>\u00a0 In the case of \u2018MLAT,\u2019<\/strong> except those concerned with execution,\u2019 none shall know of a \u2018Request\u2019<\/strong> so made, neither shall persons not connected thereto, shall know of the \u2018Contents.\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

HIGH RISK <\/strong><\/p>\n

Invariably, these are very complex operations that may concerned certain type of evidence. More over these \u2018Operations\u2019<\/strong> often placed personnel at \u2018High-Risk.\u2019 <\/strong>Hence, these operations are not only to be done \u2018Covertly,\u2019 but also with every precautionary measure taken, either for; (a) \u2018Personal safety; (b) \u2026Concealment of identity; and (iii) Avert defeating the ends of justice.\u2019 <\/strong>That which recently captured public attention has been a \u2018Press Release\u2019<\/strong> reportedly authored and disseminated by the \u2018Ministry of Foreign Affairs.\u2019<\/strong> Published on several news portals, it revealed information that \u2018Only who needs to know.\u2019 <\/strong>Whatever may have informed the decision, a \u2018Press Release,\u2019<\/strong> revealed that an operation had been conducted on the \u2018Russian Yacht, Alfa Nora\u2019 [ANR: August 20, 2022].<\/strong><\/p>\n

MILITARY AID TO CIVIL POWER<\/strong><\/p>\n

Statutorily, the \u2018ONDCP\u2019<\/strong> has primary responsibility for \u2018Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing.\u2019 <\/strong>Though there has often been \u2018Military Aid to Civil Power\u2019 <\/strong>given to; (a) \u2018The Police Service and ONDCP;\u2019 (b) Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF), along with \u2018Support Services\u2019 from (c) Customs and Excise Department\u2019 <\/strong>are functionaries to \u2018Criminal Law Enforcement Agencies.\u2019 <\/strong>For clear reasons of \u2018Expediency,\u2019 t<\/strong>hese \u2018Forces,\u2019<\/strong> had been compelled to act under \u2018Judicial Authority.\u2019<\/strong> The \u201819-Article,\u2019<\/strong> duly ratified \u2018Treaty\u2019<\/strong> allows for both nations to make formal written request for \u2018Mutual<\/strong> Legal Assistance\u2019 [Article 2 (4)].<\/strong> None shall be misguided of the primary enforcement statutorily-created agency, \u2018Office of National Drug and Control Policy (ONDCP).\u2019<\/strong><\/p>\n

JOINT OPERATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n

As the agency\u2019s name suggests, it guides the sitting administration on internationally adoptive policies. The agency under the direction of \u2018Lt. Colonel Edward Croft\u2019<\/strong> has demonstrated a capacity in conducting \u2018Anti-Drug and Money Laundering\u2019 <\/strong>operations. While there has often been \u2018Military Aid to Civil Power,\u2019 <\/strong>with support services provided by the; (a) \u2018Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF); and (b) Customs and Excise Department,\u2019 <\/strong>these are functionaries to \u2018Criminal Law Enforcement Agencies \u2018Police and ONDCP.\u2019 <\/strong>These agencies operate under the organizational name \u2018Security Forces.\u2019 <\/strong>Inter-agency cooperation dictates that these agencies pool resources when conducting \u2018Joint Operations\u2019 <\/strong>for the national good.<\/p>\n

CONCLUSION<\/strong><\/p>\n

None may deny that most Caribbean nations have never been internationally known for producing and exporting \u2018Investors\u2019 <\/strong>known for committing \u2018Financial Crimes.\u2019<\/strong> None may also deny that the fraudulent exploits of \u2018Convicted Ponzi-Schemer, R. Allen Stanford\u2019 [USA: March 6, 2012], <\/strong>has brought notoriety to the nation as a place that seems to hold magnetism for \u2018International Crooks, Fraudsters and Swindlers\u2019 (ICFS).\u00a0 <\/strong>Research has shown that some came, either under the posturing as; (a) \u2018Foreign Investors; or (b) Acquisition of Citizenship.\u2019 <\/strong>Therefore, none may deny or dispute that, some have been identified as \u2018Fugitives from Justice.\u2019 <\/strong>They either came from the \u2018United States; China; or India.\u2019 <\/strong>Some have sought to escape the \u2018Long Arm of Law.\u2019<\/strong> \u00a0Cognizance of these, and a desire to restrict illegitimate gains and net worth, and possibility of taking \u2018Evasive Flights\u2019<\/strong> to foreign jurisdictions. Though, some \u2018Treaties\u2019 <\/strong>have placed some within easy reach, some have capitalized on that which the \u2018Judicial System\u2019<\/strong> provides. \u00a0Such allows little scope for friendly nations to exercise Judicial Authority\u2019<\/strong> in assisting in bringing alleged or suspected \u2018Fleeing Criminals\u2019<\/strong> to justice.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Rawlston Pompey Through a \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty,\u2019 the nation appeared to have submitted its \u2018Sovereignty\u2019 to United States monopoly. It may have unwittingly permitted its \u2018Security Forces\u2019 and a disguised team of foreign investigators as \u2018FBI Observers\u2019 in conducting a search of \u2018Russian Superyacht Alfa Nero.\u2019 It may have been confused over the declaration […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":158943,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-158942","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"yoast_head":"\nAntigua And Barbuda: Between Two Superpowers - Antigua News Room<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Antigua And Barbuda: Between Two Superpowers\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Rawlston Pompey Through a \u2018Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty,\u2019 the nation appeared to have submitted its \u2018Sovereignty\u2019 to United States monopoly. It may have unwittingly permitted its \u2018Security Forces\u2019 and a disguised team of foreign investigators as \u2018FBI Observers\u2019 in conducting a search of \u2018Russian Superyacht Alfa Nero.\u2019 It may have been confused over the declaration […]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Antigua News Room\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/antiguanewsroom\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-09-06T11:39:34+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/mlavawteztbj.i.optimole.com\/w:auto\/h:auto\/q:mauto\/f:best\/https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/charter-alfa-nero-yacht.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1277\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"618\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Editor\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@AntiguaNewsRoom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@AntiguaNewsRoom\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Editor\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"24 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Editor\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/#\/schema\/person\/36cac05ef6398fe56ae3e6317f8535c5\"},\"headline\":\"Antigua And Barbuda: Between Two Superpowers\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-09-06T11:39:34+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2022-09-06T11:39:34+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/\"},\"wordCount\":4816,\"commentCount\":6,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/mlavawteztbj.i.optimole.com\/w:1277\/h:618\/q:mauto\/f:best\/https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/charter-alfa-nero-yacht.jpeg\",\"articleSection\":[\"News\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/antigua-and-barbuda-between-two-superpowers\/\",\"name\":\"Antigua And Barbuda: Between Two Superpowers - 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