U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured a forceful response to any Venezuelan aggression towards Guyana, amidst an ongoing territorial dispute over oil reserves. He emphasized the significant consequences that Venezuela would face, while Guyana welcomed U.S. support for its territorial sovereignty. Joint naval exercises between the U.S. and Guyana are being conducted to bolster regional security.
In Georgetown, Guyana, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio proclaimed a strong U.S. response should Venezuela undertake an attack on Guyana amid a territorial conflict involving extensive oil and gas reserves. Rubio characterized any such attack as a “very bad day” for Venezuela, emphasizing the consequences of aggressive actions by a regime engaged in narcotrafficking.
During his visit, part of a three-nation Caribbean tour, Rubio engaged in talks with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to stability in the region. This trip serves the purpose of fostering energy independence while addressing issues related to illegal migration, drug trafficking, and gang violence.
Given Guyana’s vast offshore oil reserves, Rubio highlighted its importance in U.S. plans to reduce reliance on Venezuelan energy, critically sanctioned by President Donald Trump. The relationship between the two nations remains strained due to territorial disputes, particularly following a recent incident involving a Venezuelan naval vessel encroaching on disputed waters.
President Ali reiterated his support for the U.S.’s stance on safeguarding Guyana’s sovereignty, particularly regarding the Venezuelan threats that have arisen recently. In response to incidents involving armed incursions by Venezuela, joint naval exercises with the U.S. Navy have been initiated to enhance security and military cooperation.
With a wealth of oil resources at stake following ExxonMobil’s discovery in 2015, Venezuela has intensified claims against Guyana, including attempts to claim the Essequibo region. The Venezuelan government, led by Maduro, has declared Guyana’s oil field development as “illegal.” Rubio’s visit included the signing of a security agreement to improve intelligence sharing and military cooperation, bolstering their bilateral defense relationship.
The article emphasizes the strong commitment of the U.S. to protect Guyana amidst its territorial disputes with Venezuela, particularly concerning valuable oil reserves. Secretary of State Rubio’s statements underline a decisive U.S. response to any aggression by Venezuela, while the Guyanese government expresses gratitude for American support. Furthermore, joint naval exercises signify a deepening military alliance, intended to enhance regional stability.
Original Source: www.military.com
