Rubio Promises Strong U.S. Response to Any Venezuelan Aggression Against Guyana

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the U.S. would respond forcefully if Venezuela attacks Guyana amid territorial disputes over oil reserves. He met with Guyanese President Ali to discuss regional threats and military cooperation, signing a security agreement to enhance joint efforts. Guyana is positioning itself as a key player against Venezuelan energy imports as tensions continue to escalate.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed a strong U.S. response in the event Venezuela assaults Guyana, amidst a contentious territorial dispute involving significant oil and gas reserves. During his visit to Georgetown, Rubio asserted that it would be a “very bad day” for Venezuela if such actions were taken, underscoring the seriousness of the U.S. stance on regional stability.

On a Caribbean tour, Rubio engaged with Guyanese President Irfaan Ali, discussing efforts by the Trump administration to bolster energy independence and address concerns such as illegal migration and drug trafficking. He highlighted that the regional threats stem from “illegitimate territorial claims by a narco-trafficking regime,” warning of repercussions for aggressive maneuvers.

President Ali expressed gratitude for U.S. support in maintaining Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, noting that threats from Venezuela were a key agenda item during their discussions. Guyana, rich in offshore oil reserves, is pivotal to the Republican administration’s strategy to reduce reliance on Venezuelan energy amid severe sanctions imposed by the U.S.

This month, Guyana condemned a Venezuelan naval vessel’s intrusion into disputed waters where ExxonMobil is developing a substantial oil deposit. Following this event, the U.S. administration announced strict sanctions, including tariffs on imports from countries purchasing Venezuelan oil.

Rubio also signed a security agreement enhancing intelligence and military collaboration with Guyana, coinciding with U.S. Navy exercises in the region. This demonstrates the ongoing military partnership between the two nations, especially in the wake of Venezuela’s revived claims over the Essequibo region, a large portion of Guyana’s territory that includes valuable resources.

Moreover, Guyana announced the initiation of joint naval exercises with the U.S. Navy, involving the USS Normandy and local vessels, aimed at fortifying maritime sovereignty and strengthening regional security through cooperative training.

The statements made by Secretary Rubio reflect a resolute U.S. commitment to defending Guyana against any potential Venezuelan aggression, particularly in light of the ongoing territorial disputes over valuable oil reserves. The agreement to enhance military cooperation and the commencement of joint naval exercises further signify the strengthening bilateral relations between the U.S. and Guyana as they work together to ensure regional stability and security.

Original Source: www.military.com