The US warns Venezuela of repercussions if military threats against ExxonMobil’s FPSO persist. Guyana’s military maintains readiness following a Venezuelan incursion, while the matter remains before the International Court of Justice for resolution. The US reaffirmed its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity amidst regional tensions.
The United States government has issued a warning to Venezuela regarding military threats against ExxonMobil’s Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The US State Department indicated that if such actions continue, unspecified repercussions would follow for the Maduro regime. This statement was made via the Bureau of Western Hemispheric Affairs on the platform X, formerly known as Twitter, although no specific details were shared about the potential consequences.
According to unnamed government officials in Guyana, the Venezuelan military retreated from the Stabroek Block after declaring ExxonMobil’s FPSO Prosperity to be in purportedly disputed waters. Guyana, which currently averages a production of 650,000 barrels of crude oil daily, anticipates a capacity increase to over 1 billion cubic feet of gas from the Longtail wells alone.
The US government condemned the Venezuelan naval threats as a violation of Guyana’s recognized maritime boundaries and reaffirmed its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and the ruling from the 1899 arbitral award. President Irfaan Ali of Guyana emphasized that his nation would resist any violations of its sovereignty. “Make no mistake of it: fortified by the strong voices and resolute support of our international partners, Guyana will not allow Maduro and Venezuela to threaten or violate our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he stated.
In response to the situation, Guyana’s military and Coast Guard were deployed to the area to ensure security. Dr. Ali reaffirmed his nation’s commitment to resolving disputes through diplomatic channels and upholding international law, expressing appreciation for the ongoing support from the international community. He noted that communication with international partners is vital in protecting Guyana’s interests and maintaining regional stability.
This territorial dispute currently remains unresolved, as the matter has been brought before the International Court of Justice for a determination on the validity of the 1899 land boundary award between Guyana and Venezuela. The Organisation of American States (OAS) has also denounced Venezuela’s recent aggressions towards Guyana. On Saturday, President Ali informed various international bodies, including the United Kingdom, United States, France, Brazil, and regional Caribbean organizations about the Venezuelan military incursion that reportedly occurred early in the morning.
In summary, the US has warned Venezuela about potential consequences stemming from its military threats against ExxonMobil’s FPSO, reinforcing the significance of Guyana’s territorial integrity. Guyana’s government has responded with military readiness and emphasized diplomatic engagement with international partners. The ongoing dispute remains with the International Court of Justice, highlighting the international community’s support and the critical nature of territorial sovereignty in regional stability.
Original Source: demerarawaves.com
