Strengthening Guyana’s Military Capability Amid Venezuelan Aggression

Guyana is urged to enhance its military capacity due to escalating threats from Venezuela regarding the Essequibo Region. Professor Mark Kirton advocates for CARICOM and UN support to establish a military presence in Guyana to deter aggression. The need for increased regional collaboration and public awareness is emphasized as Venezuelan actions intensify.

Recent developments indicate that Guyana must enhance its military capabilities due to escalating aggression from Venezuela concerning the Essequibo Region. International Relations Professor Mark Kirton emphasized the necessity for Guyana to boost its military readiness alongside diplomatic efforts to counter potential armed interventions by Venezuela. This assertion was made during a symposium focused on the Guyana-Venezuela border dispute at the Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies in Trinidad.

In his recommendations, Dr. Kirton suggested that the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) should examine the expansion of the Regional Security System and initiate a military observation mission in Guyana. He urged CARICOM to collaborate with Guyana in appealing to the United Nations (UN) for support in establishing a military presence to deter Venezuelan aggression, thereby adhering to international law.

Dr. Kirton argued that the establishment of a multinational military mission, in conjunction with local forces, would serve as an effective deterrent against any potential incursion into Guyanese territory. Moreover, he advocated for CARICOM to assume a leadership role in supporting Guyana’s sovereignty amidst ongoing Venezuelan intimidation.

He highlighted the importance of the Caribbean Regional Security System’s (CRSS) role, proposing that it could provide temporary defensive assistance. While he acknowledged the recent warnings from the United States regarding Venezuela’s conduct towards ExxonMobil’s interests, he expressed uncertainty over the extent of U.S. military involvement in the matter.

Carl Greenidge, former Foreign Affairs Minister of Guyana, echoed Dr. Kirton’s sentiments concerning the potential necessity for foreign military aid, stressing that seeking such support is a sovereign right. He mentioned the logistical feasibility of organizing a multilateral force but acknowledged that rapid mobilization of resources remains a challenge, particularly in light of Venezuela’s military support from nations such as Iran.

Mr. Greenidge also criticized the lack of support from the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) amid ongoing Venezuelan incursions. He suggested that this lack of assistance could stem from failures on the diplomatic front.

Dr. Kirton further recommended that Guyana keep the United Nations Security Council informed about the escalating situation, highlight its claims, and routinely communicate with Brazil, which supports border integrity and is experienced in international peacekeeping.

He emphasized the need for increased public awareness regarding the border dispute, urging collaboration with various organizations to foster a unified national stance. This strategy would mitigate misinformation and speculation surrounding the issue.

Recent events, including a Venezuelan gun attack injuring Guyanese Defence Force soldiers and incursions into Guyana’s exclusive economic zone, reflect the growing tensions in the region. Dr. Kirton confirmed that these aggressive actions from Venezuela have attracted international concern.

The professor pointed out that Venezuela’s announcement to elect a Governor for the contested Essequibo Region coincides with significant national events, indicating a calculated move to intimidate the Guyanese populace. Historically, the Essequibo Region has not been recognized as part of Venezuela’s territory, with an international boundary established over six decades ago.

Guyana has sought orders from the UN’s International Court of Justice to curb Venezuela’s electoral ambitions concerning the Essequibo Region, while Venezuela maintains its refusal to recognize the Court’s jurisdiction in this matter, advocating instead for bilateral negotiations contrary to established agreements.

In summary, the ongoing disputes between Guyana and Venezuela necessitate the strengthening of Guyana’s military capabilities with support from CARICOM and the United Nations. Experts emphasize the importance of a coordinated diplomatic strategy while preparing for potential military interventions. The current geopolitical climate underscores the urgency for regional collaboration to ensure the protection of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially in the face of Venezuela’s aggressive posturing.

Original Source: demerarawaves.com