U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has pledged a decisive response to any Venezuelan aggression towards Guyana, amidst a territorial dispute over oil reserves. His discussions in Georgetown underline U.S. support for Guyana’s sovereignty, leading to security agreements and joint military exercises between the two nations.
In Georgetown, Guyana, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared a firm stance against Venezuela’s potential aggression towards Guyana, citing an ongoing territorial dispute involving substantial oil and gas reserves. He stated that if Venezuela were to attack, it would indeed be a “very bad day” for the nation.
Rubio’s remarks occurred during a Caribbean tour, emphasizing the Trump administration’s intent to advance energy independence while addressing illegal migration and violence. Following discussions with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, who welcomed the reassurance regarding territorial integrity, Rubio made it clear that there would be serious repercussions for Venezuelan aggressions.
Guyana, rich in offshore oil, is pivotal in the U.S. strategy to reduce reliance on Venezuelan energy, which faces severe U.S. sanctions. This troubled relationship escalated recently when Guyana condemned a Venezuelan naval vessel’s incursion in waters vital to ExxonMobil’s oil extraction. President Ali highlighted the ongoing threats from Venezuela, demonstrating the urgency of the situation.
In response to these tensions, Rubio signed a security agreement with the Guyanese foreign minister to bolster intelligence sharing and military cooperation, amidst U.S. Navy exercises with the Guyanese Navy in the area. This partnership is crucial as both nations work towards safeguarding their maritime interests.
Venezuela has attempted to assert claims over two-thirds of Guyana’s territory since ExxonMobil’s discovery of oil in 2015, branding Guyana’s developments as “illegal.” In response to these threats, Guyana recently commenced joint naval exercises with U.S. naval forces to enhance its security and strengthen military collaboration with the United States.
Through these initiatives and affirmations, the U.S. and Guyana are fostering a robust alliance, aimed at addressing Venezuelan provocations while ensuring the sovereignty and security of Guyana’s maritime borders.
In summary, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized a committed response to any Venezuelan attacks on Guyana amidst escalating territorial disputes over valuable oil reserves. Rubio’s discussions with President Ali focused on reinforcing Guyana’s sovereignty against Venezuelan threats, supported by newly signed security agreements and military cooperation. Joint naval exercises further signify the strengthening relationship between the U.S. and Guyana, establishing a strategic partnership against regional challenges.
Original Source: www.kob.com
