Tensions between Guyana and Venezuela have escalated after Guyana reported the presence of a Venezuelan military vessel in a disputed zone on Saturday. The area, known as Esequibo, is a 160,000 km2 region rich in natural resources.
According to Guyana's President Irfaan Ali, the Venezuelan naval patrol vessel entered Guyanese waters and approached assets in Guyana's exclusive waters. Ali stated that international partners have been alerted.
Venezuela disputes Guyana's claim, stating that the waters are subject to delimitation under international law. They also reject Guyana's granting of illegal concessions for energy resource exploitation. The United States has called Venezuela's actions unacceptable and a violation of international law.