The Venezuelan regime called the deployment of two US planes in Guyana a “provocation”

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Venezuela Condemns US Military Presence in Guyana as a Provocation

The Venezuelan regime has strongly criticized the deployment and overflight of two US planes in Guyana, labeling these actions as provocations. The Minister of Defense, Vladimir Padrino López, denounced the maneuvers as an aggressive move by the Southern Command, supported by the Government of Guyana, which he accused of acting as a new North American colony.

The United States Embassy in Georgetown confirmed that two F/A-18F Super Hornets were conducting maneuvers in collaboration with local authorities. This operation comes amid ongoing tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over the disputed Essequibo area, a territory rich in oil and natural resources claimed by both nations.

Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro has taken steps to assert his country’s claim to Essequibo, including organizing a referendum and deploying military forces to the region. The Venezuelan Armed Forces remain deployed on the Atlantic coast, with Padrino insisting they will not withdraw until a satisfactory resolution is reached.

Maduro has urged Guyana to engage in direct negotiations, dismissing the option of seeking resolution through external organizations such as the International Court of Justice. He has accused Guyana of committing resources in the disputed area, further inflaming tensions between the two countries.

In response, Guyana has reiterated its commitment to peaceful resolution, citing a prior agreement to refrain from the use of force in resolving the territorial dispute. The country continues to issue oil production licenses, including a recent deal with ExxonMobil, despite objections from Caracas.

The situation remains tense as Venezuela and Guyana navigate the complexities of their territorial dispute. The international community is watching closely as both countries seek to assert their claims and find a peaceful resolution to the longstanding conflict.