Guyana Condemns Venezuelan Naval Incursion Near Offshore Oil Facilities
President Irfaan Ali calls for international support after a Venezuelan vessel enters Guyanese waters, escalating a long-standing territorial dispute.
- A Venezuelan coast guard vessel entered Guyana's internationally recognized maritime territory, approaching oil infrastructure operated by ExxonMobil.
- Guyana responded by summoning Venezuela's ambassador, filing a formal protest, and deploying air and naval assets to secure its waters.
- President Irfaan Ali emphasized Guyana’s commitment to peace but warned against threats to its territorial integrity, citing international law.
- The United States and the Organization of American States condemned Venezuela's actions, warning of potential consequences for the Maduro regime.
- The incident highlights the ongoing territorial dispute over the Essequibo region, an area rich in oil reserves and contested for over a century.