Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has warned CARICOM of the dangers posed by U.S. Southern Command’s engagement with Guyana, particularly following President Irfaan Ali’s meeting with U.S. military leaders. The tensions arise primarily from the ongoing dispute over the resource-rich Essequibo region, where Venezuela asserts historical claims. Maduro emphasizes the need for vigilance among Caribbean nations amidst growing military cooperation between Guyana and foreign powers, especially the United States.
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has cautioned the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) regarding the potential implications of the United States Southern Command’s activities in Guyana. Recently, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali held discussions with U.S. military leaders, prompting Maduro to call on CARICOM to remain vigilant against perceived provocations. Tensions have escalated between Venezuela and Guyana over oil exploration in the contested Essequibo region, particularly with ExxonMobil involved in significant production efforts.
The ownership of the Essequibo region, amounting to approximately 160,000 square kilometers, has been a point of contention since the 19th century, with Venezuela asserting its historical claim dating back to its independence. In December 2023, Venezuela held a referendum reaffirming its claim, which Guyana interpreted as an attempt to annex the resource-rich territory. Following a meeting resulting in the “Argyle Declaration,” both leaders opted for dialogue to address their differences under international law.
The International Court of Justice is currently reviewing the territorial dispute, amid Venezuelan objections regarding the court’s jurisdiction. Guyana recently submitted its final legal brief, with Venezuela expected to counter by August 2025. However, President Ali has pursued closer military ties with foreign forces, including the United Kingdom and the U.S. military, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.
Maduro has explicitly linked President Ali’s partnership with SOUTHCOM to the ongoing territorial dispute, alleging intentions to deepen relations with U.S. military and intelligence agencies. Maduro expressed concerns about a potential attack being prepared against Venezuela, accusing Ali of breaching the Argyle Declaration.
In a recent address, Maduro reaffirmed Venezuela’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and historical claims against any threats. His remarks occurred during commemorations of the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Ayacucho, highlighting Venezuela’s historical resistance.
The article discusses the heightened tensions between Venezuela and Guyana concerning the disputed Essequibo region, which has significant oil reserves. The conflict has drawn attention to the implications of U.S. military engagement in the Caribbean, particularly through the U.S. Southern Command, as Guyana deepens its defense relationships with the United States. Maduro’s warnings to CARICOM represent a broader concern about regional stability and potential external military interventions, reflecting Venezuela’s long-standing territorial claims and geopolitical anxieties.
In conclusion, President Nicolás Maduro’s recent comments express significant concern about U.S. military involvement in Guyana, particularly following agreements made by President Irfaan Ali with U.S. Southern Command leadership. The ongoing dispute over the Essequibo region remains a critical issue, exacerbated by both territorial claims and military alliances. Maduro’s call to CARICOM aims to strengthen regional awareness of potential threats, reinforcing Venezuela’s stance on preserving its sovereignty.
Original Source: venezuelanalysis.com
