US Warns Venezuela of Consequences for Threats Against ExxonMobil’s FPSOs

The US State Department warned Venezuela of consequences due to military threats against ExxonMobil’s FPSO vessel, reaffirming support for Guyana’s territorial rights. President Ali of Guyana declared commitment to protecting sovereignty, with military assets deployed in response. The territorial dispute is currently under review by the International Court of Justice, with the OAS condemning Venezuela’s actions.

The United States State Department issued a warning on Saturday to Venezuela regarding its military threats against ExxonMobil’s Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. The Department warned that if such threats and violations of Guyana’s borders persist, unspecified consequences would follow.

The State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemispheric Affairs emphasized that any further provocation against the Maduro regime would face repercussions. However, specific actions were not disclosed in the statement shared on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter).

Reports indicate that Venezuelan military assets had previously approached the Stabroek Block but withdrew afterward. Guyanese government officials disclosed that these military personnel had attempted to claim that the FPSO Prosperity was operating in disputed waters, which Guyana does not recognize.

Currently, Guyana produces 650,000 barrels of crude oil daily and has the potential to generate over 1 billion cubic feet of gas, specifically from the Longtail project. The US maintains that threats against ExxonMobil’s FPSO are a violation of Guyana’s maritime territory and that international support for Guyana’s integrity is solid.

In a statement on ‘X’, President Irfaan Ali affirmed that Guyana would protect its sovereignty against Venezuelan aggression. “Make no mistake of it: fortified by the strong voices and resolute support of our international partners, Guyana will not allow Maduro and Venezuela to threaten or violate our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he asserted.

Following the incident, Guyana’s military and Coast Guard were deployed to the contested area. President Ali reiterated Guyana’s dedication to resolving disputes through diplomacy and international law, thanking the global community for its backing.

This ongoing territorial dispute is currently under consideration by the International Court of Justice, aiming to validate the 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which delineates the land boundary between Guyana and Venezuela. The Organisation of American States (OAS) condemned Venezuela’s recent military actions against Guyana, reflecting regional concerns.

On the same day, President Ali notified the UK, US, France, Brazil, and additional Caribbean partners about the military incursion, which occurred early and lasted for several hours. Notifications were also sent to the Secretaries General of the OAS, Commonwealth, and United Nations concerning the ongoing situation.

In summary, the US has firmly warned Venezuela against military threats to ExxonMobil’s offshore operations, reinforcing support for Guyana’s territorial claims. President Ali has pledged to uphold Guyana’s sovereignty with the backing of international allies, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy. The ongoing dispute awaits resolution by the International Court of Justice, while the OAS has condemned Venezuela’s aggressive actions.

Original Source: demerarawaves.com