The U.S. condemned Venezuelan naval activity threatening ExxonMobil in Guyanese waters, warning of consequences for further provocations. Guyana’s President Ali confirmed illegal encroachments on its economy zone and reiterated commitment to peaceful resolutions. Tensions increased following military incidents and Venezuela’s claim in the disputed Essequibo region, rich in resources.
On Saturday, the United States condemned Venezuela’s naval activity, stating that Venezuelan vessels were “threatening” ExxonMobil operations within Guyana’s maritime territory. The U.S. Department of State issued a warning regarding potential “consequences” for any future provocations from Caracas. This statement followed Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali’s remarks on a Venezuelan patrol boat encroaching on Guyanese assets in its exclusive waters early in the morning.
Guyana alerted its international partners about the Venezuelan naval presence, asserting its rights over the waters. The U.S. Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs termed the actions of Venezuela’s naval vessels as unacceptable and a violation of Guyana’s legally recognized maritime boundaries. The statement underscored that any further provocation would have repercussions for the Venezuelan regime.
Guyana, historically one of Latin America’s less affluent nations, has experienced rising tensions with Venezuela over the disputed Essequibo territory, rich in resources. These tensions escalated significantly after ExxonMobil discovered substantial oil reserves in 2015, positioning Guyana as a significant player in the global oil market. A new contract with ExxonMobil in April 2024 has further exacerbated these tensions.
President Ali emphasized the legality of ExxonMobil’s operations within Guyana’s exclusive economic zone and affirmed the nation’s dedication to peace and legal order. He stated that while Guyana seeks diplomatic resolutions, it will not permit threats to its territorial integrity. In contrast, Venezuela rejected Ali’s statements, claiming they were unfounded and asserting that the waters in question were not part of Guyana’s territory, which remains a subject of delimitation under international law.
On February 17, hostilities escalated when Guyana reported that six of its soldiers were injured in an ambush attributed to a Venezuelan criminal gang. This incident coincided with the anniversary of a 1966 agreement aimed at resolving the territorial dispute. Guyana maintains that a prior ruling from 1899 establishes the border in its favor.
In December 2023, amidst heightened tensions, Presidents Ali and Maduro engaged in discussions in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, aiming to avoid confrontation. These discussions led to an agreement to refrain from any acts of force. However, shortly after, the UK deployed the HMS Trent to Guyana, which Maduro viewed as a provocation. Venezuela subsequently conducted extensive military operations near the border, involving thousands of personnel and various military assets.
The escalating tensions between the United States, Guyana, and Venezuela revolve around territorial disputes and naval threats in the region. The U.S. firmly supports Guyana’s claims, warning Venezuela against further provocations. Both nations remain entrenched in their positions, creating a complex and potentially volatile situation. Diplomatic efforts continue, but the threat of military escalation looms amid increasing tensions surrounding natural resource discoveries.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
