Guyana is on alert after a Venezuelan navy vessel entered its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). President Irfaan Ali announced military mobilization in response, particularly around key installations like the Prosperity FPSO. The Venezuelan vessel claimed the FPSO was operating in “undelimited waters,” challenging Guyana’s legal claims over the area.
On March 2, 2025, Guyana heightened its security following a Venezuelan navy vessel’s incursion into its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The incursion was reported early Saturday morning, prompting the deployment of aerial surveillance and the mobilization of the Coast Guard to the area. President Irfaan Ali informed citizens that the Venezuelan naval ship approached critical installations within the EEZ, including the ExxonMobil-operated Prosperity floating production storage and offloading vessel (FPSO).
The Venezuelan vessel, identified as “ABF Wakari PO-11 IMO 4695542,” belongs to the Venezuelan Coast Guard. President Ali emphasized the legitimacy of Guyana’s operations within its EEZ, reiterating that assets such as the FPSO are lawfully deployed. Additionally, it was noted that the Venezuelan vessel issued a radio communication, claiming that the FPSO was operating in “undelimited waters,” which contradicts Guyana’s claims of sovereignty over the area.
In summary, Guyana has responded decisively to the incursion by enhancing military presence in its EEZ and reaffirming its right to operate in the area. The Venezuelan navy’s actions have raised tensions, particularly around crucial resources like the Prosperity FPSO, owned by ExxonMobil. Guyana’s government remains firm in asserting its territorial rights and ensuring the safety of its maritime operations.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
