The United States denounced Venezuelan naval incursions threatening ExxonMobil operations in Guyana’s maritime territory. Guyana reported a patrol boat’s provocative approach, prompting diplomatic alerts. The US warned of consequences against Venezuela for further aggression, as tensions rise over the contested Essequibo region rich in resources. Both nations maintain opposing claims regarding the ownership of these waters, complicating diplomatic relations.
On Saturday, the United States condemned Venezuelan naval vessels that allegedly threatened an ExxonMobil unit in maritime territory claimed by Guyana. This warning was issued shortly after Guyanese President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan patrol boat had approached Guyana’s maritime assets in its exclusive economic zone. Ali indicated that Guyana had alerted its international partners regarding the incident.
The US State Department emphasized that such Venezuelan actions represent a serious violation of Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime boundaries. The statement warned the Maduro regime of potential consequences should further provocations occur. Tensions between Guyana and Venezuela have escalated due to disputes over the resource-rich Essequibo territory, with ExxonMobil’s discoveries amplifying the discord.
Guyana’s leadership has confirmed that the ExxonMobil vessels were operating legally within its exclusive economic zone. President Ali reiterated the nation’s commitment to peace and diplomacy, while firmly stating that Guyana would not tolerate any threats to its sovereignty. Venezuela has refuted these claims, asserting that the waters in question are not part of Guyanese territory, citing pending maritime delimitations as per international law.
Prior confrontations have aggravated this situation, including an incident on February 17, where six Guyanese soldiers sustained injuries following an ambush purportedly by a Venezuelan criminal group. This altercation coincides with the anniversary of a 1966 agreement that sought to resolve the territorial dispute. Guyana insists that a ruling from 1899 has established the border in its favor, further complicating the issue.
Recent developments include President Maduro’s announcement of a proposed Venezuelan province in the contested territory. Diplomatic discussions between Ali and Maduro took place in December on neutral ground, where both leaders agreed to avoid any use of force. Following these discussions, Britain sent the HMS Trent to Guyana, a move that Maduro regarded as a provocation, leading to Venezuela’s military exercises in the border region involving extensive resources.
In summary, the tensions between the United States, Guyana, and Venezuela have intensified due to recent Venezuelan naval aggressions in disputed waters. The United States has condemned these actions and warned of repercussions for further provocations. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, but consistently troubled by past hostilities and territorial claims that continue to complicate relations in the region.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
