Venezuela Votes to Claim Sovereignty Over Guyana's Essequibo Region

The controversial referendum, viewed internationally as a step towards annexation, leaves uncertainty about its enforcement and legal implications.

Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro held a referendum on December 3rd, where voters were asked if they supported the establishment of a new state in the contested area of Essequibo, a large region that makes up two-thirds of neighboring Guyana and holds enormous oil reserves.
According to Venezuela's National Electoral Council, more than 10.5 million votes were counted, but it remains unclear how many voters this represents as few voters were seen at polling sites during the voting period.
The referendum has been viewed internationally as a step towards annexation of Essequibo, raising concerns among Guyana's residents and international observers.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Venezuela to refrain from taking any action that would change Guyana's control over Essequibo, but did not specifically ban the referendum.
The practical and legal implications of the referendum remain unclear, and it is uncertain how Maduro's government will enforce the results.