Venezuela’s aggression toward the Essequibo Region prompts recommendations for Guyana to enhance military capabilities and strengthen diplomatic efforts. Professor Mark Kirton calls for CARICOM and UN support in establishing military missions and multilateral forces to deter possible Venezuelan actions, while also advocating for heightened public awareness and strategic analysis to ensure national security.
As tensions rise between Venezuela and Guyana over the contested Essequibo Region, Professor Mark Kirton, an expert in International Relations, suggests that Guyana must bolster its military capabilities. At a recent symposium, he emphasized the simultaneous need for enhanced diplomatic efforts while upgrading military assets for defense against potential Venezuelan aggression, particularly in maritime and aerial domains.
Kirton proposed that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) should expand its Regional Security System by launching a military observation mission in Guyana. He advocated for CARICOM to collaborate with the United Nations (UN) to support the Caribbean Regional Security System (CRSS) in sending a military mission to deter Venezuela’s possible annexation of the Essaquibo Region, in violation of international law.
He stressed the importance of a joint request to the UN for a multilateral military mission to aid local forces in defending Guyana against potential incursions and to safeguard lives in border communities. Kirton underscored the CRSS’s ability to temporarily support Guyana amidst escalating tensions while highlighting the necessity for initial holding capacity provided by an enhanced RSS.
Despite the US’s warning to Venezuela regarding potential consequences for aggressions toward oil assets in the Stabroek Block, Kirton expressed skepticism about any U.S. military intervention. Former Guyanese Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge supported the call for a multinational force, arguing that Guyana must not avoid seeking foreign military assistance, as it is vital for national security.
He raised concerns about logistical challenges in deploying a multinational force, especially relating to the rapid mobilization of personnel and equipment. Greenidge also pointed out Venezuela’s military alliances with countries like Iran while recognizing Guyana’s lack of similar defensive treaties.
He noted a troubling absence of support from regional organizations like the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) during this period of increased Venezuelan presence in the disputed border area. According to Greenidge, this reflects potential diplomatic shortcomings on Guyana’s part.
Additionally, Kirton recommended that Guyana continuously brief the UN Security Council on its situation, encouraging updates on peace-endangering circumstances. He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with Brazil, a country known for its respect for international law, and soliciting support through various regional organizations to maximize Guyana’s sovereignty.
Kirton also highlighted the significance of increasing public understanding of the border dispute and the necessity for a strategic analysis unit within Guyana to develop informed policy recommendations.
Reflecting on recent Venezuelan military actions that injured Guyana Defence Force soldiers and encroachments into its Exclusive Economic Zone, Kirton indicated that these incidents could signify Venezuela testing regional geopolitical responses. Furthermore, he criticized Venezuela’s plans to hold gubernatorial elections in the contested Essequibo Region, viewing it as a tactic to intimidate the Guyanese populace ahead of their independence anniversary. Guyana has sought intervention from the UN’s International Court of Justice to halt this electoral process, though Venezuela denies the Court’s jurisdiction in the matter.
In conclusion, as geopolitical tensions intensify, Guyana must not only enhance its military capacity with regional and international support but also engage actively in diplomatic efforts. The establishment of a multilateral military presence is vital to safeguard its territorial integrity against potential Venezuelan aggression. Collaborative strategies with CARICOM, the UN, and neighboring countries are crucial to reinforcing Guyana’s defense and national sovereignty amid regional disputes.
Original Source: demerarawaves.com
