Venezuela is moving forward with its plan to annex the Essequibo region, a disputed territory rich in oil, located in Guyana. This decision follows a referendum held on Sunday. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro displayed a map including the annexed territory and directed the state oil company to plan for resource exploitation in the region. Maduro also proposed laws to the National Assembly to officially incorporate the Essequibo region into Venezuela.
Maduro’s Stance and Military Deployment
Maduro expressed a desire for the “peaceful rescue” of the Guayana Essequibo and claimed it had been occupied by the British Empire and its heirs. He gave companies operating in the area without Venezuelan permission three months to comply with Venezuelan law. Additionally, he deployed military forces to Puerto Barima, near Venezuela’s Atlantic border.
Guyana’s Response to Annexation
Guyanese President Irfaan Ali denounced the annexation as unlawful and a direct threat to Guyana’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence. He described it as a violation of international law principles. Ali emphasized that Guyana would intensify efforts to protect the territory and plans to raise the issue at the U.N. Security Council.
Referendum Results and International Court Warning
The Venezuelan National Election Council reported that over 95% of voters approved the annexation, but turnout was low, with only 10% of eligible voters participating. Guyana has administered the area since an 1899 arbitration decision when Guyana was a British colony. The International Court of Justice has cautioned Venezuela against taking control of the Essequibo region, a warning that Venezuela has disputed.
U.S. Support for Guyana
The United States has offered unwavering support to Guyana amid the escalating dispute. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged support for Guyana’s sovereignty as the controversy over the oil-rich Essequibo region intensifies.
Conclusion
The annexation plan by Venezuela has heightened tensions in the region, involving historical disputes and significant international implications, especially concerning oil resources. The situation remains fluid, with potential for further diplomatic and international involvement.
Also learn about Brazil Bolsters Border Security Amid Esequibo Region Tensions Between Venezuela and Guyana.
