Guyanese President Irfaan Ali announced a Venezuelan coast guard vessel’s incursion into Guyanese waters, heightening tensions over the disputed Esequibo region, under review by the ICJ. Ali’s statements indicate the Venezuelan vessel approached the FPSO Prosperity, prompting Guyana to summon the Venezuelan ambassador and engage international support. The OAS and U.S. condemned the incursion, warning of consequences for Venezuela.
On Saturday, Guyanese President Irfaan Ali reported that a Venezuelan coast guard vessel incursion occurred in Guyanese waters, specifically approaching an operational vessel in an offshore oil block. This incursion intensifies the longstanding territorial dispute between the two nations over the Esequibo area, which spans 160,000 square kilometers and is currently under consideration by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). President Ali noted that the Exxon group has been unable to conduct exploration in the area due to its designation as force majeure.
During this incident, President Ali stated, “During this incursion, the Venezuelan vessel approached various assets in our exclusive waters, including FPSO Prosperity.” The Venezuelan Ministry of Communications has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the matter. Consequently, the Guyanese administration has summoned the Venezuelan ambassador to meet with its foreign minister to express its strong objections and has directed its embassy in Caracas to file a formal complaint.
Furthermore, Guyana intends to report this incident to the ICJ and seek support from international partners, including CARICOM. In response to the incursion, President Ali mentioned that the Guyanese government had deployed unspecified air assets to the area. The Organization of American States (OAS) condemned the Venezuelan actions, describing them as violations of Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime territory.
The United States Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs echoed these sentiments, asserting, “Further provocation will result in consequences for the Maduro regime.” The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries regarding territorial sovereignty and maritime laws.
In summary, the Venezuelan coast guard’s recent incursion into Guyanese waters has escalated existing tensions between Guyana and Venezuela over the Esequibo region. Guyana’s proactive measures, including international reporting and diplomatic communications, illustrate its commitment to asserting its territorial rights. Both the OAS and the U.S. have condemned the actions, emphasizing the significance of international law in the ongoing dispute.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
