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Dante Raeburn
Rubio Warns Venezuela Against Aggression Towards Guyana or ExxonMobil
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that an attack by Venezuela on Guyana or ExxonMobil would be detrimental for Venezuela. The two countries are in a territorial dispute over the Esequibo region, currently under review by the International Court of Justice. The U.S. is providing military support to Guyana amid rising tensions, especially after a Venezuelan coast guard vessel reportedly intruded into Guyanese waters.
During a recent visit to Georgetown, Guyana, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that any attack on Guyana or the American energy company ExxonMobil by Venezuela would constitute a “very bad day” for Venezuela. This statement underscores the rising tensions between the two nations over territorial rights concerning the Esequibo region, which spans approximately 160,000 square kilometers and is currently under review by the International Court of Justice.
The United States has pledged military assistance to Guyana amidst the territorial dispute, coinciding with increased sanctions against Venezuela. In addition, joint exercises involving the U.S. Navy cruiser Normandy and the Guyana Defence Force patrol vessel, Shahoud, were conducted in international waters and within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone, reflecting U.S. support for Guyana’s sovereignty.
Tensions escalated this month when Guyana reported that a Venezuelan coast guard vessel intruded into its waters and neared an Exxon-operated oil output vessel. Exxon, in collaboration with Hess and China’s CNOOC, currently oversees the oil sector in Guyana, contributing approximately 650,000 barrels per day. The northwest section of the oil block bordering Venezuela remains inactive due to ongoing exploration challenges.
Venezuela has contested Guyana’s claims, asserting that the vessel did not cross into Guyanese waters, as maritime boundaries are still being determined amid the territorial disagreement. The Venezuelan communications ministry has yet to respond to requests for comments on these developments.
In summary, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s remarks emphasize the serious ramifications Venezuela may face should it aggress against Guyana or ExxonMobil. The United States’ military backing and recent naval exercises highlight its commitment to supporting Guyana amid the escalating territorial tensions with Venezuela. As the dispute over the Esequibo region continues, the situation remains precarious for both nations.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
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