Guyana Responds to Venezuelan Navy Incursion with Increased Security Measures
Guyana is on high alert after a Venezuelan navy vessel entered its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), prompting the deployment of air assets and Coast Guard units. President Irfaan Ali confirmed the vessel was identified as a Venezuelan Coast Guard ship and reiterated the lawful operation of Guyana’s assets in its EEZ amid the tensions.
Guyana is currently on high alert due to an incursion by a Venezuelan navy vessel into its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on the morning of March 2, 2025. The Government has responded by deploying air assets and mobilizing its Coast Guard to monitor the situation closely. President Irfaan Ali, while addressing the nation, highlighted that the Venezuelan naval ship approached key installations within Guyana’s EEZ, including the Prosperity floating production storage and offloading vessel (FPSO) operated by ExxonMobil.
The vessel in question is identified as the “ABF Wakari PO-11 IMO 4695542,” belonging to the Venezuelan Coast Guard. President Ali firmly stated that Guyana’s assets, notably the FPSO Prosperity, are legally operating within the nation’s EEZ. Reports indicate that the Venezuelan patrol ship transmitted a message claiming that the FPSO was operating in what they term as “undelimited waters.”
In summary, Guyana is reinforcing its maritime security following the provocative actions of the Venezuelan navy, which has raised concerns over territorial integrity. The incident underscores ongoing tensions in the region concerning maritime boundaries and resource rights. The government is taking necessary measures to safeguard its assets and maintain sovereignty over its exclusive economic zone.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
