Venezuela has condemned Guyana and regional organizations for escalating tensions over a maritime dispute in the Essequibo region. Venezuelan authorities claim legal jurisdiction over the contested waters, while Guyana reports incursions by Venezuelan naval forces. The U.S. has condemned these actions, supporting Guyana’s sovereignty. Regional and international allies have reinforced support for Guyana, advocating for the peaceful resolution of the conflict through diplomatic channels.
Venezuela has sharply criticized Guyana and various regional organizations for allegedly fostering hostility following a maritime incident in the disputed Essequibo region. Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino Lopez stated the Venezuelan national armed force (FANB) firmly denies Guyana President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s claims about an incursion, asserting that a legal framework exists through the Geneva Agreement for resolving such disputes. Accordingly, Lopez contended that Guyana lacks legal authority over the contested waters.
Ali characterized the incident as a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel entering Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) near the offshore Prosperity FPSO platform. An exchange between the vessel’s representative and the FPSO captain indicated that the Venezuelan representative claimed the FPSO was operating within Venezuela’s EEZ. In response to Ali’s accusations, the U.S. Department of State condemned the Venezuelan naval actions, stating they endangered ExxonMobil personnel.
Lopez accused Guyana of violating international laws by permitting hydrocarbon exploitation in the disputed area, referring to the operations of ExxonMobil as imperialistic actions backed by U.S. interests. He denounced the positions of certain regional organizations that promote hostility rather than contributing to peace, indicating that the FANB remains vigilant to protect Venezuela’s territorial integrity.
Additionally, the U.S. State Department has issued a $15 million reward for information regarding Lopez’s alleged drug trafficking activities and has indicted him on cocaine distribution charges. Despite these issues, Lopez continues to serve as Minister of Defense under Nicolas Maduro, whose recent election victory is disputed by the U.S.
Support for Guyana has come from various countries and organizations, such as Caricom and the Organization of American States (OAS). Trinidad and Tobago’s Acting Prime Minister Stuart Young emphasized his nation’s support for Guyana’s sovereignty, advocating for adherence to the Argyle Accord, which promotes peaceful dialogue.
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland condemned Venezuela’s actions, underscoring the need for respect for international law and urging collective support for Guyana. Scotland praised Guyana’s restrained diplomatic approach and reiterated that Venezuela’s actions contradict agreements made to resolve disputes amicably, reinforcing the Commonwealth’s commitment to Guyana’s territorial integrity.
The tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo maritime incident underline the ongoing territorial disputes fueled by differing interpretations of international law and sovereignty. Venezuela’s refusal to acknowledge Guyana’s claims, combined with international support for Guyana, complicates the situation. Diplomatic efforts and adherence to international agreements will be crucial in resolving the conflict peacefully.
Original Source: newsday.co.tt
