Published on February 10, 2024, 2:06 am

The looming territorial dispute between Venezuela and neighboring Guyana is escalating, compelling Venezuela to dispatch military troops to its border. This development exacerbates the risk of a possible militarized conflict between these two South American countries. As evidenced by satellite images and videos shared publically by the Venezuelan forces, it’s evident that troops, tanks, missile-equipped patrol boats, and an armored carrier are currently based at Venezuela’s border with Guyana.

At the center of this dispute is Venezuela’s intent to annex the Essequibo region. The Venezuelan socialist dictator, Nicolas Maduro aims to authorize operating licenses for the exploration and exploitation of oil, gas, and mines in this area. The threats from Venezuela come in light of significant offshore oil finds by an Exxon Mobil-led consortium which has transformed Guyana into one of the world’s most coveted oil territories.

Exxon Mobil plans to drill two exploratory wells north and west of its prolific Stabroek block where three oil fields contribute close to 650,000 barrels of oil per day. President Alistair Routledge reiterates: “We are not going anywhere”. This assertion reflects ExxonMobil’s steadfast commitment amidst rising tensions.

Despite having signed an agreement with President Irfaan Ali of Guyana in December which aimed at curbing physical force threats while fostering a mutual commission tasked with solving territorial disputes, Maduro has appeared to back pedal on these plans sparking further unrest. The Foreign Ministry representatives from Guyana have expressed their disappointment following these recent developments but were unsurprised given past behaviours.

Emphasising its stance on the matter through X platform posting last week, Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino accused Guyana charting “military alliances” with U.S.A. Moreover promising developmental efforts such as improved living conditions supported by Venezuelan armed forces for Essequibo residents eventually insisting: “Essequibo is ours!”

Amidst these latest events affecting real news outlets, the Biden administration has pledged its support for Guyana. Presidential senior adviser Juan Gonzalez confirms their willingness to bolster Guyana’s “defensive capability.” Gonzalez explains, “Supporting Guyana to strengthen its defensive capability as it continues to bring enormous oil windfall on the market is something we have a direct interest in,” ensuring that they are not looking to advance tensions whilst acknowledging their own strategic relationship with Guyana based on a trusted news foundation viewing matters through a Christian worldview.

As this enduring territorial dispute unfolds, it’s imperative to keep abreast of new developments from a reliable news source. The role of institutions such as Exxon Mobil and the U.S government underlines the profound international implications of this border issue, adding further weight to the importance of equitable conflict resolution for the betterment of both nations and their people.