HMS Trent, during its stop in Tortola, November 21-23, 2025, took on fuel and provisioning. Photo: Team of Reporters

United Kingdom appointed Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr Daniel Pruce is one of the most divisive and unpopular Governors in recent times. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Some social commentators claimed that the UK warship was here following the peaceful protest against the UK-appointed Governor, who has demonstrated no regard for the rule of law or respect for the people of the Territory. 

Mr Pruce violated the constitution, policy and protocol by interfering in the recruitment of a Commissioner of Police (CoP). He further ignored the recommendations of the Police Service Commission (PoSC) and forced a shady character on the police force in the person of Mr Richard Ullger.

While he had written back to the PoSC asking them to reconsider their decision of Mr Ullger to act as CoP,  Mr Pruce to date has not gotten a response, but went ahead and appointed Mr Ullger. This is another example of his disregard for the rule of law and his practice of colonialism. 

HMS Trent routine visit?

However, the HMS is allegedly not here to protect the UK representative or about concerns over civil unrest in regards to the Governor’s behaviour and his controversial treatment of former Acting CoP Ms Jacqueline E. Vanterpool. They were in the region following deployment supporting Hurricane Melissa disaster relief.

Government House noted that HMS Trent continues its calls on the Overseas Territories in the Caribbean with a visit to Tortola from November 21-23, 2025. According to the Governor’s Office, “This is a routine visit aimed at strengthening HMS Trent's contacts in the Territory and building preparedness and resilience through engagement with community groups”.

The ship, according to a source familiar with its operations at our ports, noted that HMS Trent has taken on fuel and provisioning.