A Venezuelan warship’s incursion into Guyana’s EEZ has intensified a long-standing territorial dispute. Guyana condemned the act and assured protection of its sovereignty, while Venezuela asserted claims over disputed waters. Tensions have fluctuated due to internal Venezuelan political maneuvering, leading to international involvement as a critical factor in resolving the conflict.
On March 1, a Venezuelan warship entered Guyana’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and approached ExxonMobil’s Liza Destiny oil facility, demanding information from its crew. This act escalated the ongoing conflict between Venezuela and Guyana. Guyana condemned the incursion, reinforced its military presence, and vowed to protect its sovereignty while seeking a peaceful resolution, whereas Venezuela claimed the waters fall within a disputed maritime zone and denied infringing on Guyana’s sovereignty.
Tensions over the Essequibo territory, a cause of conflict for decades, have fluctuated recently, intensified by Venezuela’s referendum process to establish the state of “Guayana Esequiba” despite a ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) prohibiting such actions. The Maduro government aims to consolidate national support around a historically bipartisan issue, while Guyana promptly challenged the referendum’s legality. Additionally, Venezuela has begun expanding a military base on Anacoco Island, which it occupied in 1966, further inflaming the situation.
The recent maritime incursion by Venezuela represents a significant escalation in the longstanding dispute with Guyana, fueled by internal political motives within Venezuela and external geopolitical dynamics. The international community’s role is pivotal in mediating this conflict, as the potential for destabilization is significant, affecting both regional stability and global energy markets. Coherent international support is necessary to deter further Venezuelan aggression and to encourage a peaceful resolution over the contested territory and maritime rights.
Original Source: www.csis.org
