U.S. Issues Warning to Venezuela Over Threats to ExxonMobil’s FPSO Vessels

The U.S. warned Venezuela of repercussions if threats against ExxonMobil’s FPSOs persist. Guyana reiterated its sovereignty, supported by international partners, while the territorial dispute is now before the International Court of Justice. The OAS condemned Venezuela’s aggression in this ongoing conflict.

On March 1, 2025, the United States Department of State issued a warning to Venezuela regarding its military threats towards ExxonMobil’s Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel, emphasizing the potential for unspecified repercussions if these violations of Guyana’s territorial integrity persist. The Bureau of Western Hemispheric Affairs stated, “Further provocation will result in consequences for the Maduro regime.”

Officials from the Guyanese government, who requested anonymity, indicated that Venezuelan military vessels have retreated from the Stabroek Block area. They had previously informed the FPSO Prosperity that it was thought to be operating in internationally disputed waters. Guyana currently produces 650,000 barrels of crude oil daily, which may increase significantly with gas production projections reaching over 1 billion cubic feet.

The United States characterized the Venezuelan naval threats against the FPSO as unacceptable, emphasizing that these actions constitute a violation of Guyana’s internationally recognized maritime territory. “The United States reaffirms its support for Guyana’s territorial integrity and the 1899 arbitral award,” stated officials from the American government.

President Irfaan Ali of Guyana declared that his country would not permit violations of its sovereignty by President Nicolás Maduro and Venezuela. He stated, “Make no mistake of it: fortified by the strong voices and resolute support of our international partners, Guyana will not allow Maduro and Venezuela to threaten or violate our sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Additionally, President Ali noted that Guyana’s military assets were dispatched to the region, reinforcing the country’s commitment to upholding international law and seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support received from the international community, stating, “We appreciate greatly the international solidarity and unwavering support that have been extended to us by our international partners on this matter.”

The territorial dispute currently lies before the International Court of Justice, seeking a ruling on the legitimacy of the 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award that delineates the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela. The Organisation of American States (OAS) also condemned Venezuela’s recent aggressive actions against Guyana. President Ali reported that key international partners were informed of the military incursion, including the United Kingdom, United States, France, Brazil, and the Caribbean Community.

In summary, the United States has warned Venezuela against continuing military threats towards ExxonMobil’s FPSO vessels, asserting that further provocations will lead to consequences for the Maduro administration. As Guyana maintains its commitment to its territorial integrity, the situation is being closely monitored by international partners. The ongoing dispute with Venezuela is under consideration by the International Court of Justice, reflecting the importance of diplomatic engagement in resolving these issues.

Original Source: demerarawaves.com