Guyana triggers military response after Venezuelan vessel enters its waters

The President of Guyana has sparked a military reaction and diplomatic efforts after a Venezuelan coastguard patrol entered Guyana’s territorial waters and approached an offshore oil facility, violating international maritime agreements.

The President, Irfaan Ali, made a strongly worded statement following a radio message from the Venezuelan vessel claiming it was sailing in “disputed international waters”.

Dismissing the claims, Ali said: “Let me be clear as day. Maritime borders are recognised under international law, and this is a real worry for us … I want to assure you that my government is not acting rashly; we’re dealing with this situation with good sense and accountability.”

He stated that he had requested the Venezuelan ambassador to attend his office to express his strong objection and had directed Guyana’s embassy in Caracas to file a formal complaint with the Venezuelan government.

But he also made it clear he had activated a military response, which included the deployment of air support and the country’s coastal patrol units.

He said: “Guyana remains committed to peace and the rule of law. We’ll keep working towards diplomatic solutions, but we won’t cop threats to our sovereignty.”

The United States and the Organisation of American States (OAS) have backed Guyana, condemning Venezuela’s actions.

Describing the incident as a threat to ExxonMobil’s oil operations in Guyana’s internationally recognised maritime zone, the OAS statement said: “Such acts of intimidation constitute a clear breach of international law, undermine regional stability, and threaten the principles of peaceful coexistence between nations. The OAS reiterates its steadfast backing for Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Venezuelan regime must immediately stop all aggressive moves that could escalate tensions in the region.”

The US Department of State’s Bureau of the Western Hemisphere has again expressed its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity, stating that “any further provocation will attract consequences for the Maduro regime”.

between the two neighbouring South American countries regarding their land and maritime borders.

Bikie gang members opened fire on them.

The mineral-rich Essequibo region, which makes up two-thirds of Guyana’s landmass, is situated near significant offshore oil reserves. This area was previously administered by Britain for over a century, but has been under Guyanese control since Guyana gained independence from the UK in 1966.

by force.

However, they failed to reach an agreement on the Essequibo region dispute.