The UK and France condemned a Venezuelan naval incursion into Guyana’s EEZ on March 1, intensifying an ongoing border dispute. France called on Venezuela to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and comply with international law, while the UK described the act as provocative. The US and CARICOM also supported Guyana, deeming Venezuela’s actions as aggressive. Guyana’s President condemned the incursion, asserting the nation’s recognized maritime boundaries and escalating security measures in response.
The United Kingdom and France have issued strong condemnations regarding a March 1 incursion by a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel into Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) near the Stabroek Block oil reservoir. This incident, involving the Venezuelan patrol ship approaching Guyanese oil platforms, escalates the long-standing territorial dispute between the two nations.
France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs stated its concern over the Venezuelan actions and urged Caracas to respect Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They emphasized the importance of adhering to international law and the December 1, 2023, order from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which prohibits Venezuela from undertaking unilateral actions that could disrupt the status quo off Essequibo’s coast.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy described the Venezuelan incursion as a “serious provocative act” and reiterated Britain’s unwavering support for Guyana’s internationally recognized territorial boundaries. He called for Venezuela to cease its aggressive maneuvers, which threaten regional stability.
Support for Guyana also came from the United States and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the incident as “unacceptable,” cautioning the Maduro regime regarding potential ramifications for continued provocations. CARICOM labeled Venezuela’s actions as “acts of aggression and provocation” and reaffirmed its support for Guyana’s sovereignty.
In response, Guyana’s President Dr. Irfaan Ali deemed the incident concerning, asserting that the nation’s maritime boundaries enjoy international recognition. He revealed that Guyana had formally protested to Venezuela and summoned the Venezuelan Ambassador to communicate their discontent. Additionally, he noted that further patrols from the Coast Guard were deployed near the Stabroek Block to ensure maritime security.
The incident has raised concerns among the personnel on the oil platforms, notably the FPSO Prosperity, which reportedly faced the Venezuelan vessel. Venezuelan authorities claimed via radio that Guyana’s operations were in disputed waters, a claim that Guyana vehemently rejects. This incursion presents yet another escalation in a decades-long border dispute centered around the oil-rich Essequibo region, currently under review by the International Court of Justice for a definitive ruling.
The recent Venezuelan incursion into Guyana’s waters has drawn international condemnation, particularly from the UK, France, the US, and CARICOM. These nations have reaffirmed their support for Guyana’s sovereignty amid escalating tensions. The situation remains critical as the border dispute nears a ruling from the International Court of Justice, highlighting the importance of adherence to international law and the need for regional stability.
Original Source: www.caribbeannationalweekly.com
