A Venezuelan coast guard vessel has entered Guyana’s territorial waters, escalating tensions in a long-standing border dispute. The Guyanese President confirmed the breach and emphasized the importance of diplomatic protest while taking military measures. The incident underscores ongoing territorial disputes over the resource-rich Essequibo region, amid a commitment to pursue peaceful solutions.
A Venezuelan coast guard vessel has violated Guyana’s territorial waters, prompting increased tensions between the two nations. In a national address, Guyana’s President reported that the armed vessel ABF Guaiqueri PO-11 entered Guyana’s waters on Saturday, March 1, highlighting that it approached various assets within Guyana’s exclusive economic zone, including the FPSO Prosperity.
The Venezuelan vessel allegedly declared via radio that the FPSO was in “disputed international waters” before continuing towards other FPSOs, which raised serious concerns about maritime boundaries. The President affirmed that Guyana’s maritime limits are recognized under international law and this incursion is a significant issue.
In response to the violation, Guyana’s government engaged in immediate diplomatic actions, summoning the Venezuelan ambassador to register a strong protest. Additionally, Guyana has instructed its embassy in Caracas to lodge a formal complaint with the Venezuelan government and informed international partners, including the UK and CARICOM, of the situation.
Meanwhile, CARICOM is actively communicating with Venezuela regarding the matter. The President has kept opposition leaders informed, emphasizing a bipartisan approach to resolve the situation. Furthermore, the defense board is convening to assess the situation, deploying air assets within the exclusive economic zone.
The President announced intentions to approach the International Court of Justice and notify the United Nations, Commonwealth, and OAS about this incident. He reiterated Guyana’s commitment to diplomacy, yet asserted that the nation would not accept any threats to its territorial integrity.
These events unfold amid ongoing resource disputes in the Essequibo region, claimed by Venezuela but internationally recognized as part of Guyana. The President assured citizens that the government is acting diligently and will provide further updates as the situation evolves.
The breach of Guyana’s territorial waters by a Venezuelan coast guard vessel has intensified longstanding border tensions. Guyana’s government is taking diplomatic and military measures while reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding its territorial integrity. The situation, linked to ongoing disputes over resource-rich areas, remains a priority for both national defense and international legal recourse.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
