The US Government’s Plan to Militarize the Venezuela-Guyana Border Dispute
Introduction
The US government is aiming to militarize the ongoing territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo region, according to Venezuelan Foreign Minister Evan Hale. In his address to the UN General Assembly, Hale expressed his concerns over the US Southern Command’s plan to establish a military base in the disputed area. He accused the US of using this base as a launching pad for aggression against Venezuela and to gain control over its energy resources.
Venezuela’s Response
Denouncing the US government’s intentions, Hale stated that the Venezuelan Parliament has approved a referendum to defend its sovereign territory against the US Empire’s aggression. He emphasized Venezuela’s commitment to peace and its determination to protect its sovereignty and integrity.
US Intervention and Disregard for International Law
Hale further criticized the American government for intervening in a conflict that dates back 200 years. He accused the US of attempting to exploit the Essequibo region’s oil reserves with the help of Exxon Mobil, which controls the Guyanese government and provides oil concessions in the disputed “undivided territorial sea.” This action, according to Hale, is a clear violation of international law. He stressed that disputed territories cannot be unilaterally disposed of, yet the government of Guyana persists in its illegal behavior.
Historical Background of the Dispute
The border dispute between Venezuela and Guyana traces its origins back to the 19th century. In 1899, an agreement was reached between Britain and Venezuela that established the borders between the two countries through an international mediator. However, Guyana did not sign this agreement and continued to exert control over the disputed territories.
Tensions Escalate over Oil and Gas Reserves
In recent years, tensions between Venezuela and Guyana have heightened due to the discovery of vast oil and gas reserves in the disputed Essequibo region.
Source: News
