US troops withdraw from Grenada, paving way for Nicholas Braithwaite as interim Prime Minister.
| Political | Global Trade |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: | Updated:
4 min read
In a pivotal episode in Grenadian history, US troops completed their withdrawal from the island, paving the way for Nicholas Braithwaite to be appointed as interim Prime Minister. This military disengagement marked the conclusion of a significant international intervention that had commenced with the US-led invasion of Grenada. The invasion was launched in response to internal political turmoil and the execution of then Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, leading to a dramatic shift in the power dynamics within the small Caribbean nation.
The political instability in Grenada had drawn international attention, with implications for Cold War geopolitics. The US justified its intervention by citing the protection of American citizens and restoring democratic governance. The military operation involved approximately 7,000 US troops combined with forces from the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), confronting the Grenadian military and Cuban workers present on the island.
After securing key objectives, the US initiated the process of restoring civilian rule. The subsequent withdrawal of troops signaled an end to direct military involvement, but the effects of the intervention continued to resonate. Nicholas Braithwaite's appointment as interim Prime Minister was a crucial step in stabilizing Grenada's governance. Braithwaite, who had previously served as the executive secretary of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), was seen as a stabilizing figure capable of guiding the country through the transition period.
The departure of US forces and the establishment of interim governance under Braithwaite were critical in addressing the immediate challenges faced by Grenada. However, the long-term impact of the intervention and the subsequent political developments shaped the future trajectory of the nation’s politics and international relations.
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