Guyana has alerted the international community to a serious incursion by a Venezuelan military vessel near its oil production ships, asserting that the area is legally within its exclusive economic zone. President Irfaan Ali believes the situation necessitates a measured response. Diplomatic actions have been initiated, including summoning the Venezuelan Ambassador and coordinating with CARICOM. The incident follows recent violence involving Venezuelan forces, highlighting ongoing territorial disputes between the two countries.
The Government of Guyana has raised alarms regarding threats posed by Venezuelan military vessels to oil production operations in its territorial waters. A Venezuelan Coast Guard ship was detected on Saturday morning, approaching various oil vessels and asserting that they were functioning in disputed areas according to Venezuelan claims. President Irfaan Ali described the incursion as serious and a grave concern, emphasizing that Guyana’s maritime boundaries are established under international law.
During his national address, President Ali remarked on the specific incident occurring on March 1, 2025, when the vessel entered Guyana’s waters and issued a radio transmission to oil assets, including FPSO Prosperity, claiming they were in “disputed international waters.” He declared that the government’s response is deliberate and measured, assuring citizens of the seriousness with which the matter is being handled.
Ali confirmed communication with CARICOM’s Chair, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, and other international stakeholders. She is currently addressing the Venezuelan government regarding the situation. Additionally, President Ali has disclosed plans to meet with the Leader of the Opposition to provide a detailed briefing on the incident.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Venezuelan Ambassador to officially register Guyana’s strong objection to the military incursion, while the embassy in Venezuela has been instructed to lodge an official complaint with the Venezuelan government. In response to the situation, Guyana is enhancing surveillance in the Stabroek block, and the Coast Guard will be deploying additional teams to that area.
This incident marks the second occurrence in just a few weeks that Guyana has alerted the international community about Venezuelan aggression. Recently, six Guyanese soldiers patrolling the Cuyuni river were shot at by individuals from the Venezuelan side, suspected to be members of a local criminal gang. While Venezuela continues to stake a claim to Guyanese territory, this dispute was resolved in Guyana’s favor by an 1899 arbitration, and a final settlement is currently being sought in the International Court.
In summary, the Government of Guyana is actively addressing a serious incursion by a Venezuelan military vessel in its maritime territory, raising concerns among its citizens and international partners. President Irfaan Ali has committed to handling the situation responsibly while increasing surveillance and diplomatic efforts. This incident further emphasizes the ongoing territorial disputes between Guyana and Venezuela, which date back over a century and remain a critical issue for regional stability.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
