Guyana’s Government has alerted international bodies about a Venezuelan military vessel’s incursion into its waters, threatening oil ships. President Ali emphasized the seriousness of the violation, affirming Guyana’s rights to its maritime zone. Diplomatic measures have been initiated, and monitoring of the area has increased amidst escalating tensions following recent incidents involving Venezuelan forces.
The Government of Guyana has raised alarms with the international community concerning aggressive actions by the Venezuelan military toward oil production vessels operating legally in Guyana’s waters. On Saturday morning, a Venezuelan military ship was detected navigating close to these vessels, asserting that they were operating in what Venezuela considers disputed territory.
In a national address, President Irfaan Ali emphasized the severity of this violation, identifying the incursion as a Venezuelan Coast Guard vessel. He detailed that on March 1, 2025, at approximately 7:00 AM, the Venezuelan armed patrol ship entered Guyana’s maritime territory and approached offshore assets, including the FPSO Prosperity, demanding that they vacate the area, which it claims as ‘disputed international waters.’
President Ali asserted, “Let me be unequivocal, Guyana’s maritime boundaries are recognized under international law and this incursion is a matter of grave concern.” He reassured citizens that the government was addressing the situation responsibly, while also noting that the incident has caused unease among workers aboard the various vessels involved in oil production.
Following the incident, President Ali informed CARICOM Chairman Prime Minister Mia Mottley and other international partners. The CARICOM Chair has reportedly begun discussions with the Venezuelan Government regarding this matter. The President also indicated that he would meet with the Leader of the Opposition for an in-depth briefing concerning the incident.
Additionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Venezuelan Ambassador to formally register Guyana’s objection to this military incursion. The Guyana Embassy in Venezuela is to submit an official complaint to the Venezuelan Government. In response to the incursion, Guyana has intensified surveillance in the area and mobilized additional Coast Guard teams.
This marks the second incident in a short span that necessitated Guyana’s alert to the international community about Venezuelan actions. Last week, six Guyanese soldiers were shot while conducting patrols on the Cuyuni River, reportedly by members of a criminal gang from the Venezuelan side.
Despite a resolution on the border dispute dating back to 1899, Venezuela continues to assert claims over Guyanese territory. Guyana is seeking a definitive judicial ruling from the International Court to finally settle the longstanding controversy.
In summary, Guyana has expressed serious concerns regarding a Venezuelan military vessel’s unauthorized incursion into its waters, threatening offshore oil production. President Irfaan Ali has taken steps to inform international partners and denounce the aggression through diplomatic channels. This incident follows another recent conflict involving the Venezuelan side, reinforcing Guyana’s commitment to defending its territorial integrity under international law.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
