U.S. Security Cooperation with Oil-Rich Guyana Amidst Venezuelan Tensions

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Guyana to bolster U.S. security cooperation amid rising tensions with Venezuela, which claims land in Guyana. With Guyana poised to become a leading oil producer, Rubio’s trip emphasizes strategic alliances and security commitments, particularly against Venezuelan threats, aligning with the Trump administration’s focus on enhancing U.S. ties with oil-rich nations.

On March 27, 2025, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Guyana to assure the nation of US security amid rising tensions with Venezuela. Guyana, having recently discovered vast oil reserves, is projected to become the world’s largest oil producer per capita this year, surpassing nations like Qatar and Kuwait. Rubio’s visit includes signing a memorandum that formalizes security cooperation between the United States and Guyana, as indicated by the State Department.

Prior to visiting Guyana, Rubio will engage in discussions with Caribbean nations in Jamaica, and will proceed to Suriname, another neighboring oil-producing country. The Trump administration has envisioned a relationship with Guyana similar to that of Gulf Arab nations, which receive US military support due to regional threats. U.S. Special Envoy Mauricio Claver-Carone emphasized that Guyana’s security is a priority and highlighted the growing threats posed by Venezuela.

Venezuela, led by Nicolas Maduro, has claimed sovereignty over the Essequibo region of Guyana, home to most of its oil production. In response to recent Venezuelan aggression, which included the incursion of a military vessel into Guyanese waters, President Irfaan Ali of Guyana has strengthened defense ties with the United States, supporting joint maritime patrols. This move aligns with Ali’s reelection campaign and demonstrates a commitment to national security amidst Venezuelan claims.

The border dispute dates back to an 1899 arbitration ruling, but Venezuela disputes this, calling it a violation of its territory. The Trump administration prioritizes oil production in Guyana, viewing it as a strategic economic and security opportunity. Notably, ExxonMobil is ramping up oil production in Guyana, with expectations of producing 1.3 million barrels per day by the decade’s end, significantly outpacing Venezuela’s diminished output due to decades of mismanagement and sanctions.

Amid these developments, the Trump administration has reversed a previous exemption allowing Chevron to operate in Venezuela, reflecting a stronger stance against the Maduro regime, driven by pressure from anti-communist lawmakers.

The visit of Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Guyana underscores the United States’ commitment to enhancing security cooperation with the oil-rich nation, especially in light of Venezuelan aggression. The geopolitical dynamics surrounding oil production in Guyana further complicate existing tensions. With elections approaching, President Ali’s partnership with the U.S. could serve as a stabilizing force against Venezuelan claims, all while ensuring Guyana’s security amidst a shifting regional landscape.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net