Guyana Responds Strongly to Venezuelan Military Incursion Near Oil Vessels

The Government of Guyana has alerted the international community about a Venezuelan military vessel’s incursion near oil production ships, claiming they were in disputed waters. President Ali confirmed the incident’s seriousness, stating Guyana’s boundaries are recognized under international law. The government has taken swift action, summoning the Venezuelan Ambassador and increasing monitoring efforts in the area to ensure the safety of workers.

The Government of Guyana has raised alarms regarding threats from the Venezuelan military towards oil production vessels operating within its waters. On Saturday morning, a Venezuelan naval vessel was sighted close to these vessels, asserting that they were navigating in a so-called disputed area. President Irfaan Ali emphasized the seriousness of the situation during a national address, identifying the vessel as a Venezuelan Coast Guard ship.

In his address, President Ali noted the incursion, which occurred on March 1, 2025, at approximately 7:00 AM, involved a Venezuelan armed patrol ship approaching Guyanese assets, including the FPSO Prosperity. The patrol vessel claimed that these operations were happening in “disputed international waters.” Ali stated, “Let me be unequivocal, Guyana’s maritime boundaries are recognised under international law and this incursion is a matter of grave concern.”

The incident has caused unease among crews aboard the vessels, where numerous Guyanese and foreign workers are involved in offshore oil production. The government has reached out to CARICOM, with Prime Minister Mia Mottley already engaging with her Venezuelan counterpart concerning the matter, while President Ali plans to brief the Leader of the Opposition later.

Additionally, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Venezuelan Ambassador to formally object to the incursion, and Guyana’s Embassy in Venezuela has been instructed to file an official complaint. Increased monitoring measures are being implemented in the Stabroek block, and additional Coast Guard teams are being dispatched to the area.

This incident marks the second report within weeks about Venezuelan aggression; previous reports indicated that six Guyanese soldiers were shot while patrolling the Cuyuni River, allegedly by members of a Venezuelan criminal gang. Despite the 1899 settlement of their territorial dispute, Venezuela continues to claim Guyanese territory while the matter is currently before the International Court for resolution.

In summary, Guyana has formally addressed recent threats from the Venezuelan military against its oil production vessels, emphasizing the legality of its maritime boundaries. The government is actively engaging with regional and international partners to handle the situation, which has raised concerns among personnel working offshore. Guyana remains committed to defending its sovereignty, particularly as it deals with recurring incidents of military provocations from Venezuela.

Original Source: newssourcegy.com