Guyanese President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan coast guard patrol entered Guyanese waters, approaching an offshore oil vessel. This incident exacerbates the ongoing territorial dispute over the Esequibo area, currently being assessed by the International Court of Justice. Guyana has taken diplomatic steps, including summoning the Venezuelan ambassador and deploying air assets, while international bodies condemn the incursion.
On Saturday, President Irfaan Ali of Guyana stated that a patrol vessel from the Venezuelan coast guard had intruded into Guyanese waters, coming near an output vessel in an offshore oil block. This incident occurs amidst a prolonged territorial dispute over the Esequibo region, an area that encompasses 160,000 square kilometers and is currently under review by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The northwest section of the disputed offshore block remains effectively inaccessible, as the Exxon group has encountered difficulties in carrying out exploration activities there. President Ali remarked on the incident, noting, “During this incursion, the Venezuelan vessel approached various assets in our exclusive waters, including FPSO Prosperity.”
In response, Guyana has summoned the Venezuelan ambassador for a discussion with its foreign minister to articulate strong objections against the incursion. Furthermore, Guyana’s embassy in Caracas has been directed to lodge an official complaint with the Venezuelan government. Ali confirmed the intention to formally report the incident to the ICJ and to engage with international partners, including CARICOM.
To address the situation, the Guyanese government has deployed unspecified air assets. The Organization of American States (OAS) has condemned the Venezuelan actions, characterizing them as violations of Guyana’s sovereign territory. The United States Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs also issued a reprimand, indicating that continued provocations might result in repercussions for the Maduro regime.
In summary, the Venezuelan coast guard’s recent incursion into Guyanese waters has escalated tensions between the two countries, prompting Guyana to take diplomatic action and notify international bodies. The ongoing territorial dispute over the Esequibo area remains unresolved as the ICJ case continues. Global responses, especially from the OAS and the United States, underscore the seriousness of the violation and the potential consequences for Venezuela’s actions. The Guyanese government is committed to protecting its territorial integrity and has signaled its readiness to address this violation through both diplomatic and potential military means.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
