Guyanese President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan patrol entered Guyanese waters near an oil block, escalating a long-standing territorial dispute. In response, Guyana summoned the Venezuelan ambassador, lodged formal complaints, and plans to report the incident to the ICJ. The OAS and the U.S. condemned the incursion, warning of potential consequences for Venezuela.
On Saturday, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan coast guard patrol had entered Guyanese waters, approaching an output vessel within an offshore oil block. This incident further escalates the ongoing territorial dispute between the two nations regarding the 160,000-square-kilometer Esequibo area, currently under review by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The Exxon group is facing operational setbacks in the northwest section of this oil block due to the ongoing tension, which is classified as force majeure. Ali’s statement highlighted that during the Venezuelan incursion, their vessel approached various assets in Guyanese exclusive waters, including the FPSO Prosperity.
In response to this violation, Guyana has summoned the Venezuelan ambassador for discussions with its foreign minister to express serious objections. Moreover, the Guyanese embassy in Caracas is set to file a formal complaint against Venezuela. The government will also report the incident to the ICJ and engage with international partners such as CARICOM, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
Additionally, Ali indicated that unspecified air assets have been deployed to bolster security in the region. The Organization of American States (OAS) condemned the Venezuelan incursion into Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime territory, reinforcing the illegality of such actions.
The United States Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs also denounced the incident, warning that further provocations from Venezuela would lead to consequences for the Maduro regime. This incident highlights the unresolved tensions and territorial disputes affecting the relationship between Guyana and Venezuela.
The recent incursion by a Venezuelan vessel into Guyanese waters has intensified the ongoing territorial dispute, especially concerning the Esequibo area. Guyana’s strong diplomatic response, including international reporting and deployment of air assets, signals a commitment to defend its sovereignty. The condemnation from regional and international entities underscores the significance of the territorial integrity of Guyana.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
