U.S. Secretary of State Promises Strong Response Against Venezuelan Aggression Toward Guyana

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned of a strong U.S. response if Venezuela attacks Guyana, emphasizing military support and cooperation. Following recent Venezuelan threats, Guyana’s government welcomed U.S. reassurances for its territorial integrity, especially given its vast oil reserves. The U.S. has tightened sanctions on Venezuela and is conducting joint naval exercises with Guyana, aiming to further strengthen military ties and promote regional security.

On Thursday, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio proclaimed that the U.S. would respond decisively should Venezuela launch an attack against Guyana amidst the ongoing territorial disputes involving significant oil and gas reserves. Rubio expressed the severity of such an action, stating it would represent a “very bad day” for Venezuela. This statement came during Rubio’s Caribbean tour aimed at reinforcing U.S. interests in the region, particularly concerning energy independence and the fight against illegal migration and drug trafficking.

During his visit to Guyana, Secretary Rubio engaged in discussions with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, where he highlighted the threats posed by Venezuela’s “illegitimate territorial claims”. Rubio conveyed his commitment to holding Venezuela accountable if it were to undertake aggressive actions toward Guyana. He emphasized that such provocations would have serious repercussions for the Venezuelan regime.

In response to Rubio’s remarks, President Ali expressed his appreciation for the U.S. support in safeguarding Guyana’s territorial integrity amid Venezuelan threats. Ali emphasized the importance of U.S. involvement, especially regarding Guyana’s substantial offshore oil reserves, which are crucial to U.S. efforts to reduce reliance on Venezuelan energy, particularly given the sanctions placed on Venezuela by the Trump administration.

The situation escalated earlier this month when Guyana denounced an incident involving an armed Venezuelan naval vessel in disputed waters close to ExxonMobil’s operational areas. This confrontation underscored the tensions surrounding the territorial dispute, which has intensified since ExxonMobil’s significant oil discoveries in Guyana. In response to such conflicts, the U.S. administration has imposed stringent sanctions, including tariffs targeting goods from nations importing Venezuelan oil.

Additionally, Secretary Rubio recently signed a security agreement with Guyana to bolster intelligence-sharing and military cooperation, which coincided with U.S. Navy exercises alongside the Guyanese Navy. These joint efforts are part of a broader strategy to fortify military and security ties between the U.S. and Guyana, ensuring the protection of maritime sovereignty and enhancing regional stability.

In conclusion, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has made it clear that the U.S. stands firmly behind Guyana in the face of Venezuelan aggression regarding territorial disputes over oil reserves. The commitment to assist Guyana through military cooperation and the assurance of consequences for Venezuela signify a determined U.S. approach to uphold regional security and integrity and to challenge Venezuelan expansionism. Furthermore, the ongoing military exercises highlight the growing partnership between the U.S. and Guyana amidst heightened tensions.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com