The US has warned Venezuela against further military threats to ExxonMobil’s FPSO, indicating consequences for Venezuela’s regime. Guyana’s President Ali emphasized the nation’s sovereignty, while the OAS condemned Venezuelan aggression. The territorial dispute is currently under review by the International Court of Justice.
On March 1, 2025, the United States State Department issued a warning to Venezuela regarding its military threats against ExxonMobil’s Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The warning indicated that further threats could lead to unspecified consequences for the Maduro regime. The statement was delivered via the Bureau of Western Hemispheric Affairs on the social platform, X, formerly known as Twitter, although no specific actions were outlined.
Reports from anonymous Guyanese government officials confirmed that Venezuelan military forces had vacated the Stabroek Block after claiming the FPSO Prosperity was within disputed waters. With current production at 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day, Guyana anticipates increasing its output to over 1 billion cubic feet of gas from the Longtail field.
The US government condemned the threats posed by the Venezuelan naval vessels against ExxonMobil’s FPSO, labeling such actions as a violation of Guyana’s maritime territory. It reaffirmed support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and the 1899 arbitral award, highlighting the importance of international law in resolving disputes.
President Irfaan Ali of Guyana reiterated a commitment to protecting national sovereignty from Venezuelan claims. He stated, “Make no mistake of it: fortified by the strong voices and resolute support of our international partners, Guyana will not allow Maduro and Venezuela to threaten or violate our sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
In response to the incursion, which lasted several hours, the Guyanese government deployed aircraft and Coast Guard assets to the affected area. Dr. Ali expressed appreciation for the support from the international community while emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and adherence to international law.
This territorial dispute is currently under review by the International Court of Justice, which is expected to rule on the validity of the 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award delineating the boundary between Guyana and Venezuela. The Organisation of American States (OAS) also denounced Venezuela’s recent provocations against Guyana.
The situation between Venezuela and Guyana is escalating, with the US clearly supporting Guyana’s defense of its territorial integrity. The US State Department’s warning reflects growing tensions in the region, emphasizing the need for adherence to international laws. Guyana continues to seek support from international partners while the case is pending at the International Court of Justice.
Original Source: demerarawaves.com
