U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that any Venezuelan attack on Guyana will be met with significant repercussions. During his Caribbean tour, he discussed territorial threats with Guyana’s President Ali, who welcomed U.S. support for safeguarding national integrity. Joint military exercises between the U.S. Navy and Guyana signify their growing defense relationship.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted a strong U.S. response to potential Venezuelan aggression towards Guyana, particularly amidst a territorial dispute involving significant oil and gas reserves. During his Caribbean tour, Rubio stated, “It would be a very bad day for the Venezuelan regime if they were to attack Guyana,” emphasizing the seriousness of such threats.
Rubio’s meetings with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali involved discussions on Venezuelan provocations. Ali expressed gratitude for U.S. commitment to protect Guyana’s territorial integrity, stating, “I am very pleased at the reassurance of the U.S. in ensuring the safeguard of our territorial integrity and sovereignty.”
Guyana, with its offshore oil deposits, is central to U.S. energy independence strategies against Venezuela, which is facing U.S. sanctions. Earlier incidents, including an incursion by a Venezuelan naval vessel in disputed waters, have heightened tensions in the region.
In response to territorial ambitions, Rubio signed a security agreement bolstering military cooperation and intelligence sharing between the U.S. and Guyana. Concurrently, the U.S. Navy initiated joint exercises with Guyana’s naval forces to enhance maritime security and preparedness.
Since ExxonMobil’s significant oil discovery in 2015, tensions have escalated regarding the Essequibo region, with Venezuela asserting claims of illegality over Guyana’s oil developments. The ongoing military collaborations signify a strengthening U.S.-Guyana relationship aimed at countering Venezuelan influence in the region.
The U.S. is assertively supporting Guyana against Venezuelan threats, particularly regarding territorial disputes over valuable oil reserves. Secretary Rubio’s statements reaffirm America’s commitment to safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty. Joint military exercises between the two nations signify a deepening partnership as they confront Venezuelan aggression and aspire for energy independence in the region.
Original Source: www.military.com
