U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged a firm U.S. response if Venezuela attacks Guyana amid territorial disputes involving oil reserves. His discussions with Guyana’s President Ali highlighted regional security threats from Venezuela. The U.S. seeks to enhance military cooperation and reduce energy dependency on Venezuela through sanctions. Joint naval exercises between the U.S. and Guyana have commenced to strengthen defense capabilities.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted that the United States would react decisively if Venezuela were to launch an attack on Guyana, amid a contentious territorial dispute involving substantial oil and gas resources. He warned that such an act would represent a “very bad day” for Venezuela. Rubio’s remarks were made during his Caribbean tour aimed at enhancing American engagement in the region and addressing issues related to energy dependency, illegal migration, and drug trafficking.

During his discussions with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali in Georgetown, Rubio reiterated the seriousness of regional threats resulting from Venezuela’s illegitimate territorial claims. He emphasized that aggressive actions would lead to consequences. Ali expressed gratitude for U.S. reaffirmation of support to safeguard Guyana’s territorial integrity in light of Venezuelan threats.

Guyana’s strategic offshore oil reserves position it as a crucial element in U.S. efforts to reduce regional reliance on Venezuelan energy imports, especially following stringent sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump. The relationship between the two neighboring countries has been strained, particularly after an armed Venezuelan naval vessel intruded into disputed waters where ExxonMobil is engaged in significant oil extraction activities.

In response to Venezuelan provocations, including a recent naval incident, the Trump administration enacted strict sanctions, such as imposing a 25% tariff on imports of Venezuelan oil. Rubio signed a security agreement with Guyana’s foreign minister to enhance military collaboration and intelligence sharing, coinciding with U.S. Navy exercises with the Guyanese Navy aimed at strengthening maritime security.

Since ExxonMobil’s discovery of major oil deposits in Guyana in 2015, Venezuela has sought to resurrect historical territorial claims against Guyana, particularly concerning the Essequibo region. The Venezuelan government has labeled Guyana’s oil development efforts as “illegal.” Further, Guyana announced initiation of joint naval drills with U.S. forces to bolster its maritime sovereignty and regional security.

In conclusion, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has committed to a strong response against potential Venezuelan aggression towards Guyana, reflecting concerns over territorial conflicts amid significant oil reserves. The U.S. aims to support Guyana in maintaining its sovereignty while reducing reliance on Venezuelan energy through sanctions and military cooperation. Joint military exercises further symbolize the deepening ties between the U.S. and Guyana, particularly in light of escalating tensions in the region.

Original Source: www.kob.com

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